When pulling a patient, how far should you extend your arms?

• A. No more than 8 inches
• B. No more than 12 inches
• C. No more than 20 inches
• D. No more than 15 to 20 inches

Answer: (D)

Keeping the load close to your body is essential to protect your back when moving a patient. When you pull, extend your arms only to a distance that keeps the patient within your torso’s reach—no more than about 15 to 20 inches. This shorter reach reduces the lever arm, allowing you to drive the movement with your legs and maintain a neutral spine, which lowers the risk of back injury. If you reach farther than that, the torque on your spine increases and you’re less able to use proper lifting mechanics. The other options don’t reflect the safe upper limit: 8 inches is overly restrictive for most pushes or pulls, 12 inches is safe but not the maximum guideline, and 20 inches is within the upper end of the safe range. If the patient is beyond that reach, reposition or ask for assistance or use a transfer device rather than pulling from too far away.