402 Unit 4 Healthcare Skills Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. • With the bed and stretcher close together, stand on the side where the patient will be moving (Figure 13.44). The stretcher will be positioned between your body and the patient’s bed. The other healthcare worker should be standing on the other side of the patient’s bed. • If there is a gap between the bed and the stretcher, use a plastic or wood slide board (also called a transfer board) to fi ll the open space. • Lay the transfer sheet or slide at the back of the patient from the shoulder down to the hips. If the patient is too weak to move his head, adjust the sheet so it will also support the head. • Ask the patient to move closer to the edge of the stretcher or bed he is on, so that he is closer to the surface to which he’ll be transferred. • Ask the patient to do as much of the transfer as possible. If the patient is too weak, grasp the transfer sheet fi rmly and instruct the patient to tuck his chin to his chest to avoid hyper-extending his neck as he is lifted from the bed. Also be aware of arm placement. If the patient is unable to assist in the transfer, have him place his arms across his chest. • Prepare the patient and other healthcare worker for the lift and transfer. Count to three and then begin the transfer. You will usually transfer the lower body of the patient fi rst and then move the upper body second. Some patients require the lift to occur in one motion to prevent any further injury. • Cover the patient with a sheet or blanket. Elevate the side rails of the stretcher or bed and release the brake. Make sure the patient’s body is in alignment and that she is comfortable. Wash your hands to ensure infection control. Lifting a Patient Lifting patients from their bed to a chair, wheelchair, or stretcher is a procedure that requires concentration and safety awareness. It also requires special training. General lifting, as described in positioning and transfer- ring, usually requires manual equipment and good body mechanics. Lifting those who are overweight or frail may require a device that uses slings and mechanical or electronic equipment. In some states and facilities, only healthcare workers over the age of 18, or those who have had special training, may operate mechanical or electronic lifting devices. Remember the tasks that need to be done prior to lifting, such as wash- ing your hands greeting the patient and explaining, in simple terms, what you are planning to do. Ensure that any tubes, medical devices, or IV cath- eters are secure enough to remain intact during the lift. Next, determine any possible limitations on your involvement with the pro- cedure if it involves the use of mechanical or electronic lifts. Are you old enough? Wards Forest Media, LLC Figure 13.44 With the transfer sheet beneath her, the patient is prepared for healthcare workers to begin moving her from the bed to the stretcher.