Question

A nurse is assisting a client who has generalized weakness out of bed to a wheelchair. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Place the wheelchair at a 90° angle to the bed. Rationale: If the client has difficulty walking, the nurse should place the wheelchair parallel to the bed.
B. Lock the wheels of the bed and the wheelchair. Rationale: The nurse should keep the wheels of the bed and the wheelchair in the locked position to prevent them from moving when transferring a client.
C. Get the help of several staff members to lift the client. Rationale: There is no indication that the client is so weak that the staff must lift him. If the client requires lifting, then the nurse should use the appropriate lifting device to keep the client and the staff safe.
D. Elevate the bed to a position of comfort for the nurse. Rationale: When assisting the client out of bed, the nurse should lower the bed to its lowest position.

Answer 1

A nurse should place the wheelchair parallel to the bed, lock the wheels of both the bed and wheelchair, only lift the client if necessary and use appropriate lifting devices, and lower the bed to its lowest position.

Step-by-step explanation:

When assisting a client with generalized weakness out of bed to a wheelchair, the nurse should take the following actions:

1. Place the wheelchair parallel to the bed to make it easier for the client to transfer.
2. Lock the wheels of both the bed and the wheelchair to ensure stability and prevent accidents.
3. Do not lift the client unless absolutely necessary, as it may put both the client and the staff at risk. Use appropriate lifting devices if needed.
4. Lower the bed to its lowest position for the comfort and safety of the nurse and the client.