When moving a resident up in bed who is able to move with assistance, the nurse aide should choose option D: Bend the resident’s knees and ask the resident to push with his/her feet.

This is the safest and most appropriate technique for repositioning a resident who can participate in the movement. Here’s a brief explanation of each option:

A. Position self with knees straight and bent at waist – This improper body mechanics increases the risk of back injury for the nurse aide.

B. Use a gait or transfer belt to assist with repositioning – While transfer belts can be helpful for transferring residents, they are not typically used for repositioning in bed when the resident can assist.

C. Pull the resident up holding onto one side of the drawsheet at a time – This may cause friction and shearing forces on the resident’s skin and increases the workload for the nurse aide.

D. Bend the resident’s knees and ask the resident to push with his/her feet – This engages the resident’s own muscle strength and leverage, reducing the amount of effort required from the nurse aide. It also follows principles of proper body mechanics.