Which instruction should a nurse give to prevent stress injuries when lifting heavy objects?

Keeping a heavy object close to your body when lifting is an essential practice to prevent stress injuries. This method helps to maintain the center of gravity and stability during the lift, significantly reducing the strain on the back and other muscles. When an object is kept close to the body, the force required to lift it is more evenly distributed through the arms, shoulders, and legs, which are stronger and better equipped for lifting, rather than placing excessive stress on the back.

This approach minimizes the risk of injury by encouraging proper body mechanics. It allows the lifter to engage the larger muscle groups in the legs and hips, which are more capable of handling weight, rather than relying solely on the back, which is more vulnerable to injury.

Other practices, such as locking your knees or bending at the waist while lifting, can lead to poor lifting posture and increase the risk of injury. Maintaining proper alignment and using the body's strength effectively is critical for safe lifting techniques. Keeping feet closer together while lifting can also impede balance and stability, which can be counterproductive when trying to lift heavy items safely.