Which term best describes the technique of using body movements to reduce injury risk?

The term that best describes the technique of using body movements to reduce injury risk is body mechanics. Body mechanics refers to the proper use of your body during movement and lifting, ensuring that physical actions minimize strain and prevent injuries. This includes maintaining a stable posture, using your legs for lifting rather than your back, and keeping loads close to your body to optimize leverage and balance.

Understanding body mechanics is crucial, especially for emergency care providers who often engage in physically demanding tasks like transferring patients or performing CPR. Effective use of body mechanics helps to protect both the caregiver and the patient during such activities, emphasizing safety through proper movement techniques.

Other options like ergonomics pertain to designing workspaces and tools to fit the user's needs, which indirectly relates to body movements but is not exclusively focused on the techniques used by individuals to prevent injury during movement. Physical therapy, while aimed at rehabilitation and improving physical function, does not inherently address the prevention aspect of injury risk through movement. Patient care primarily encompasses broader aspects of treatment and support given to patients, rather than specifically focusing on the physical techniques used by providers.