Chapter 13 Assisting with Mobility 401 Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. The following guidelines should be followed when transferring a patient to a chair or wheelchair: • Position the chair or wheelchair close to the bed. Be sure the chair is stabilized or the wheelchair wheels are locked. If you are using a wheelchair, also remove the armrest nearest to the bed and swing both leg rests out of the way. • Help the patient turn over in the bed toward you. Put an arm under the patient’s neck with your hand supporting the shoulder blade. Put your other hand under the patient’s knees (Figure 13.41). • Swing the patient’s legs over the edge of the bed. Help her to sit up, and then have her move to the edge of the bed. Wait a few minutes before the next step to give the patient time to adjust to the sitting position. • Put your arms around the patient’s chest and clasp your hands behind the patient’s back (Figure 13.42). Alternatively, you may use a gait belt. • Support the patient’s leg farthest from the wheelchair between your legs, lean back, shift your weight, and lift (Figure 13.43). Avoid injuring your back by bending your knees and keeping your back straight. • Pivot toward the chair as you continue to clasp your hands around the patient. You may want to have someone assist by supporting the wheelchair or patient from behind. • As the patient moves toward you, bend your knees and lower the patient into the chair or wheelchair. The following are guidelines for transferring a patient from a bed to a stretcher or stretcher to bed. This transfer requires two healthcare workers. • Lower the side rails of the bed and position the stretcher as close as possible to the bed. • Adjust the stretcher so it is at a working height and adjust the bed to the same level as the stretcher. Ensure the stability of the bed and stretcher by locking the brakes on each. Wards Forest Media, LLC Figure 13.42 Wrap your arms around the patient to ensure you have a strong grasp as you continue the transfer. Wards Forest Media, LLC Figure 13.43 Observe proper body mechanics as you begin lifting the patient from bed. Wards Forest Media, LLC Figure 13.41 Support the patient’s head and neck as you begin moving her into a seated position.