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19.1 Working at low or floor level

Essential equipment

  • Low stool
  • Kneeling pad
  • Cushion for behind the knees

Pre‐procedure

ActionRationale

  1. 1.
    Only work at floor level if there is no other option; always attempt to perform the task at a more functional height.
    To minimize poor postures associated with working at or near floor level (HSE [36], C).
  2. 2.
    Check there is sufficient space to kneel or sit on the floor close to the patient.
    To reduce overreaching and stretching (Croshaw [13], C).

Procedure

  1. 3.
    Kneel in a comfortable position on a non‐slip, wipeable kneeling pad or sit on a low stool if you are unable to kneel (Action figure 3). If kneeling, a cushion positioned behind the knees can improve comfort and posture.
    To reduce the risk of prepatellar bursitis caused by kneeling on hard surfaces and to maintain a good spinal posture (Croshaw [12], E).
    To help reduce the amount of flexion in the knees (Croshaw [13], E).
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Action Figure 3a  Combining a kneeling stool and a leg support to reduce strain on knees and keep the back upright. Some padding under the knees would make this position even more comfortable.
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Action Figure 3b  This stool can be used for sitting or kneeling on one or both knees. This allows for changes in posture while protecting the joints.
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Action Figure 3a  Combining a kneeling stool and a leg support to reduce strain on knees and keep the back upright. Some padding under the knees would make this position even more comfortable.
image
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Action Figure 3b  This stool can be used for sitting or kneeling on one or both knees. This allows for changes in posture while protecting the joints.
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