balance and operation and promotes healthy
physiologic functioning
b.Balance: A body in correct alignment is
balanced; its center of gravity is close to the
base of support, the line of gravity goes through
the base of support, and the object has a wide
base of support.
c. Coordinated body movement: Using major
muscle groups rather than weaker ones and tak-
ing advantage of the body’s natural levers and
fulcrums
6.Sample answers:
a.Develop a habit of maintaining erect posture
and begin activities by broadening the base of
support and lowering the center of gravity.
b.Use the weight of the body as a force for pulling
or pushing by rocking on the feet or leaning
forward or backward.
c. Slide, roll, push, or pull an object rather than
lifting it to reduce the energy needed to move
the weight against the pull of gravity.
d.Use the weight of the body to push an object by
falling or rocking forward, and to pull an object
by falling or rocking backward.- a.Aerobic exercises (running, swimming, tennis):
Sustained muscle movements that increase
blood flow, heart rate, and metabolic demand
for oxygen over time, thereby promoting
cardiovascular conditioning
b.Stretching exercises (warm-up and cool-down
exercises): Movements that allow muscles and
joints to be stretched gently through their full
range of motion; increase flexibility
c. Strength and endurance exercises (weight train-
ing): Weight training, calisthenics, and specific
isometric exercises can build both strength and
endurance, increase the power of the
musculoskeletal system, and improve the body.
d.Activities of daily living (shopping, cleaning):
All activities of daily living have an effect on
health and provide increased fitness that does
not require a gym.
8.Sample answers:
a.Increased energy, vitality, and general well-
being
b.Improved sleep
c. Improved self-concept
d.Increased positive health behaviors - a.Pillows: Pillows are used primarily to provide
support or to elevate a part. Pillows of different
sizes are useful for different body parts.
b.Mattresses: A mattress should be firm but
should have sufficient “give” to permit good
body alignment to be comfortable and support-
ive. A well-made and well-supported foam-rub-
ber mattress retains a uniform firmness.
c. Adjustable bed: The head of an adjustable bed
can be elevated to the desired degree, and the
distance from the floor can be altered to allow
the patient to get in and out of bed easier or to
allow healthcare workers to give care without
back strain.
d.Bed side rails: They help to remind patients that
they are not in their usual environment and
keep them from falling out of bed.
e.Trapeze bar: This handgrip suspended from a
frame near the head of the bed makes moving
and turning considerably easier for many patients
and facilitates transfers into and out of bed.
f. Cradle: A metal frame that keeps the top
bedding off the patient’s lower extremities
while providing privacy and warmth.
g.Sandbags: Sandbags immobilize an extremity
and support body alignment. They are not hard
or firmly packed but should be placed so they
do not create pressure on bony prominences.
h.Trochanter rolls: Used to support the hips and
legs so that the femurs do not rotate outward.
i. Hand/wrist splints or rolls: A commercial plastic
or aluminum splint is used to hold the thumb
in place no matter what position the hand is in.- a.Quadriceps drills: Have the patient contract the
muscles on the front of the thighs by pulling
kneecaps toward hips; hold the position to the
count of four; relax muscles for count of four.
Frequency: two or three times each hour, four
to six times a day.
b.Pushups: Sitting in bed: Instruct patient to lift
hips off the bed by pushing down with hands
on mattress. Lying on abdomen: Instruct
patient to place hands near the outstretched
body at shoulder level with palms down on the
mattress and elbows bent sharply; then have
patient straighten elbows while lifting head and
shoulders off bed. Wheelchair: Instruct patient
to place hands on arms of chair and raise body
three or four times a day.
c. Dangling: Instruct the patient to sit on the edge
of the bed with legs and feet dangling over the
side. Rest the patient’s feet on the floor or foot-
stool. Have patient assume a marching position.
(Remain with patient in case he/she feels faint.) - a.Physical assessment: The nurse would assess the
following:
1.General ease of movement: Are body parts
fluid and is voluntary movement controlled
and coordinated?
2.Gait: Is head erect? Are the vertebrae
straight, knees and feet forward, and arms
swinging freely in alternation with leg
swings?
3.Alignment—in standing position: Can a
straight line be drawn from the ear through
the shoulder and hip?
4.Joint structure and function: Are there any
joint deformities or limitations in full range
of motion?
5.Muscle mass tone and strength: Are they
adequate to accomplish movement and
work?
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