What is the primary technique recommended for lifting a patient?

Using your legs for strength is the primary technique recommended for lifting a patient because it helps to utilize the body's strongest muscle groups while minimizing the risk of injury. When you bend at the knees and remain close to the person being lifted, you distribute the weight more evenly across your body and rely on the powerful muscles of your legs rather than straining your back. This technique not only helps in safely lifting the patient but also reduces the strain on your spine, making it a safer and more efficient method.

In contrast, lifting with your back can lead to significant injury, as it places excessive strain on the spinal column and diminishes the mechanical advantage the body has while lifting. Keeping the person far from your body can destabilize your center of gravity, increasing the risk of falling or dropping the patient. Twisting your body while lifting can also lead to injuries, as it places additional strain on the back muscles and joints. Therefore, using your legs for strength is the safest and most effective approach when lifting a patient.