SonoSite iLook, User Manual

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Chapter 2: Getting Started
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Position Yourself
To support your back, consider the following:
• Use a chair that has support for your lower back.
• Use a chair that adjusts to your work surface height and promotes a natural body posture.
• Use a chair that allows for quick height adjustments.
• Always sit or stand in an upright manner. Avoid bending or stooping.
To minimize reaching and twisting, consider the following:
• Use an adjustable bed to adjust the height of the patient.
• Position the patient as close to you as possible.
• Face forward. Avoid twisting your head or body.
• Move your entire body front to back and position your scanning arm next to or slightly in front
of you.
• Stand for difficult exams to minimize reaching.
To promote comfortable shoulder and arm postures for your scanning arm, consider
the following:
• Keep your elbow close to your side.
• Relax your shoulders in a level position.
• Support your arm using a support cushion or pillow, or rest it on the bed.
To minimize neck bending and twisting, consider the following:
• Position the ultrasound system/display directly in front of you.
• Provide an auxiliary monitor for patient viewing.
Go Lightly
To promote comfortable hand, wrist, and finger postures for your scanning arm,
consider the following:
• Hold the transducer lightly in your fingers.
• Minimize the pressure applied on the patient.
• Keep your wrist in a straight position.
Take Breaks
Minimizing scanning time and taking breaks can be very effective in allowing your body to recover
from physical activity, which can help you avoid any MSDs. Some ultrasound tasks may require
longer or more frequent breaks. One way of taking a break is to stop and relax. However, simply
changing tasks can help some muscle groups relax while others remain or become active.