Final answer:
Patients can be transferred while awake or asleep, depending on the specific medical procedure or intervention. Anesthesia is commonly used to ensure the patient's comfort and safety during transfers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Transfers of patients can occur in different healthcare settings, depending on the patient's condition and the required procedures. In some cases, a patient may be transferred while awake, especially if they are being moved within a hospital for diagnostic tests or to a different department for specialized care. However, during major surgical procedures or certain medical interventions, patients are typically put under anesthesia and transferred while asleep. Anesthesia ensures that the patient is unconscious, ensuring their comfort and safety during the transfer.