Chapter 3. Safe Patient Handling, Positioning, and Transfers Show
Transfers are defined as moving a patient from one flat surface to another, such as from a bed to a stretcher (Perry et al., 2014). Types of hospital transfers include bed to stretcher, bed to wheelchair, wheelchair to chair, and wheelchair to toilet, and vice versa. Patient Transfer from Bed to StretcherA bed to stretcher transfer requires a minimum of three to four people, depending on the size of the patient and the size and strength of the health care providers. Patients who require this type of transfer are generally immobile or acutely ill and may be unable to assist with the transfer. Checklist 29 shows the steps for moving patients laterally from one surface to another. Checklist 29: Moving a Patient from Bed to Stretcher
Take this Lateral Transfer Sliding Board course for more information on sliding board transfer. Transfer from Bed to WheelchairPatients often need assistance when moving from a bed to a wheelchair. A patient must be cooperative and predictable, able to bear weight on both legs and take small steps. If any of these criteria are not met, a two-person transfer or mechanical lift is recommended. Always complete a patient risk assessment prior to all patient-handling activities. See Checklist 30 for the steps to transfer a patient from the bed to the wheelchair (PHSA, 2010). Checklist 30: Bed to Wheelchair Transfer
Special considerations:
Video 3.6Take this Standing Step Around Transfer course to learn the method for a bed to wheelchair transfer.
What are the steps taken to transfer a patient from a bed to a wheelchair?Transfer—Bed to Wheelchair. 1 Sit the patient up: Lock the wheelchair. Help the patient turn over onto his or her side, facing you. ... . 2 Stand the patient up: Have the patient scoot to the edge of the bed. ... . 3 Sit the patient down: Have the patient pivot toward the chair, as you continue to hold on.. How Should the bed be positioned when transferring a patient?Lower head of bed and side rails. Position the patient closest to the side of the bed where the stretcher will be placed. Safe working height is at waist level for the shortest health care provider. The patient must be positioned correctly prior to the transfer to avoid straining and reaching.
What should you do before transferring a patient?What do I need to do before I transfer the person?. Check the person for pain or other problems. A transfer can cause pain or make pain worse. ... . Gather extra pillows. ... . Look around the room. ... . Check that equipment will not move during a transfer. ... . Secure all medical equipment on or near the person.. Where should a patient's feet be placed while in a wheelchair?Key points for positioning. Positioned in the middle, not leaning to one side.. The headrest should be positioned at the base of the head.. Legs and feet.. Thighs should be straight.. Knees level with hips.. Feet should make full contact on footplate.. |