A staff education nurse is evaluating a group of nurses during a new employee orientation on the use of proper body mechanics when lifting. Which of the following images indicates the appropriate use of ergonomic principles? A. B. C. D.

A. This is incorrect since the load should be held as close to the nurse's center of gravity (the pelvis) as possible. B. This is incorrect since the back should remain straight or in its natural "S" curve throughout the lift. The power for the lift should come from the gluteal and femoral muscles, not the back. C. This is correct since the nurse is squatting and bending at the knees, keeping the back straight. Bending at the knees and hips to engage stronger leg muscles rather than the lower back. The object should also be kept close to the torso, not held at arm’s length, shoulders aligned, no twisting of the trunk, and the eyes forward, head aligned with the spine. D. This is incorrect since the feet placement should be a wide base of support, one foot slightly ahead of the other. The back alignment includes the spine kept straight, no twisting or bending at the waist. Knees should be bent to lower the body, rather than bending forward.