Course Description:

Welcome to this course on Patient Safety and Positioning for Physical Therapy. Many patients have difficulty getting out of bed, walking around, bathing, or using a wheelchair. These difficulties can lead to injuries when a patient falls or attempts to do something beyond their physical capabilities. The physical therapist can prevent these incidents by learning how to best position patients and how to help them move around. Patients are kept safe when caregivers know how to prevent falls, when to use physical restraints, and how to watch for other ways someone may become injured. Understanding body mechanics helps therapists determine how they can best help patients without causing injury to themselves or others. This course discusses the signs that a patient might have difficulties moving or staying in a safe position on their own, and what techniques caregivers can use to help their patients move, sit, and lie in a safe manner.

Please note: This continuing education/professional development activity was planned for physical therapists. Completing this course does not authorize you to add any skill discussed in the content to your practice if this function is not included in your current scope of practice.