Question

A COTA is preparing to assist a patient who has multiple sclerosis to transfer from sitting in a

wheelchair to standing in front of the sink in the bathroom. What position should the COTA
place the patient’s feet to prepare for a safe transfer?
A.Slightly posterior with the patient's knees flexed to 80°
B.Slightly forward with patient’s knees flexed to 110°
C.Directly underneath the patient’s knees

Answer 1

The COTA should position the patient’s feet slightly forward with knees flexed for a safe wheelchair to standing transfer, ensuring a larger base of support and lower center of gravity for increased stability.

Step-by-step explanation:

When assisting a patient with multiple sclerosis to transfer from sitting in a wheelchair to standing in front of the sink, the Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) should place the patient’s feet to prepare for a safe transfer slightly forward from the knees with the knees flexed. This positioning helps in increasing stability by creating a larger base of support and lowering the center of gravity, which is essential for maintaining balance during the transfer. The position mimics how a football player prepares to receive a ball or brace for a tackle, effectively enhancing the patient's stability.