How to Make a Safe Patient Transfer

Question 1

What is the first key step when preparing for a patient transfer?

Answer 1

Set up is key. Ensure that the surfaces you’re transferring to and from are as close as possible and have everything you need within arm’s reach.

Question 2

How should directions be given during a patient transfer?

Answer 2

Give clear, concise, and short directions before and during the transfer.

Question 3

Why is it important to let the patient remain in a new position for a few seconds?

Answer 3

It allows the patient’s blood pressure to stabilize before they start moving again.

Question 4

What should be used to assist in patient transfers if available?

Answer 4

Use a gait belt at all times, or the patient’s pants or belt if a gait belt is unavailable.

Question 5

What is a key observation to make during a patient transfer?

Answer 5

Verbalize any postural observations that could make the transfer difficult, such as asking the patient to sit up straight if they are slumped over.

Question 6

Why should you never allow a patient to hold onto your neck during a transfer?

Answer 6

This can cause injury to you and compromise the safety of the transfer.

Question 7

Why should you avoid placing your hands under a patient’s arms during transfers?

Answer 7

It could damage the brachial plexus, a cluster of nerves in the armpit.

Question 8

What is a key rule of body mechanics during transfers?

Answer 8

Keep the patient close to you, and use your leg muscles instead of back muscles as much as possible.

Question 9

How should your spine be positioned during patient transfers?

Answer 9

Keep a straight, neutral spine – not arched or curved forwards or backwards.

Question 10

What is important to consider regarding the patient’s weight?

Answer 10

Consider the patient’s weight and assistance level needed, and don’t attempt more than you can handle.

Question 11

What should you avoid doing with your body during transfers?

Answer 11

Avoid twisting or rotating your trunk; instead, use pivots or steps.

Question 12

What should be removed from the environment before a transfer?

Answer 12

Remove any clutter or obstacles, ensuring there is enough room for both the patient and yourself to move freely.

Question 13

What should you do with the wheelchair before transferring a patient into it?

Answer 13

Lock the wheelchair, and move the foot pedals and leg rests out of the way.

Question 14

What should you do if a patient begins to fall during a transfer?

Answer 14

Don’t try to stop the fall. Instead, bend your knees and slowly lower the patient to a safe surface, then call for help if necessary.

Question 15

During a stand pivot transfer, what position should the patient’s heels be in?

Answer 15

The patient’s heels should be angled towards the surface they are moving to.

Question 16

How should the patient’s feet be positioned during a stand pivot transfer?

Answer 16

The feet should be directly under or slightly behind the knees to avoid injury.

Question 17

What is a key movement technique during a transfer to avoid injury?

Answer 17

Straddle the patient’s leg farthest from the surface you’re moving towards to maintain control and balance.

Question 18

What should the patient do with their hands during a transfer?

Answer 18

The patient should reach their hands towards the corresponding arm rests of the wheelchair to help guide their body’s movements.

Question 19

How can you promote safety and confidence in the patient during transfers?

Answer 19

Communicate clearly and ensure the patient understands and participates in the transfer as much as possible.

Question 20

What is the first step in a stretcher transfer?

Answer 20

Get ready by lowering the head of the bed, adjusting the bed height, and locking the wheels of the gurney.

Question 21

How do you use a draw-sheet during a stretcher transfer?

Answer 21

Slide a plastic board or garbage bag under the sheet and use the draw-sheet to shift the patient.

Question 22

What should be the height relationship between the gurney and the treatment table during a transfer?

Answer 22

The gurney should be slightly higher than the treatment table to reduce the physical strain during the transfer.

Question 23

What should be moved first during a stretcher transfer?

Answer 23

Start with the patient’s legs, moving them onto the treatment table first to reduce back strain.

Question 24

How should a helper hold the draw-sheet during a stretcher transfer?

Answer 24

The helper should kneel on the gurney and firmly hold the draw-sheet, using it to slide the patient onto the treatment table.

Question 25

What is a critical consideration in any patient transfer?

Answer 25

The safety of the patient and yourself is the most important consideration when performing any transfer.

Question 26

Why is communication key during patient transfers?

Answer 26

Communication ensures that the patient understands your instructions and timing, which helps prevent injury and allows the patient to assist as much as possible.

Question 27

What should you do if the patient is confused or unable to follow instructions during a transfer?

Answer 27

Provide extra assistance and take more control of the movement, while offering simple and calm instructions to avoid confusion and ensure safety.

Question 28

How do you assess the number of people needed for a transfer?

Answer 28

Consider the patient’s weight, mobility, and medical condition, as well as any potential hazards, and make sure there are enough helpers to ensure a safe transfer.

Question 29

What role does the environment play in a safe transfer?

Answer 29

A clean, uncluttered environment is essential for safe transfers, allowing for smooth movements and preventing trips or other hazards during the transfer.

Question 30

How do you maintain patient dignity during transfers?

Answer 30

Always communicate with the patient, maintain their privacy by covering them appropriately, and ensure that the process is done as smoothly and respectfully as possible.