What occurs when a patient is pulled up in bed without being lifted first?

When a patient is pulled up in bed without first lifting them, a shearing force is applied to the bony prominences and underneath tissues. Shearing occurs when layers of skin and tissue slide in different directions, which can happen particularly when the patient remains in contact with the bed surface. This force can lead to skin damage, such as pressure ulcers and other injuries to the skin and underlying structures, as the friction between the patient’s skin and the bed can damage both the skin and the more delicate tissues beneath.

Proper lifting techniques are critical not only for patient safety but also for maintaining skin integrity and preventing complications related to immobility. This underscores the importance of using appropriate techniques, such as repositioning the patient before pulling, to avoid these harmful effects.