Question

The nurse is demonstrating correct transfer procedures to the unlicensed assisted personnel (UAP) working on a rehabilitation unit. The UAPs ask the nurse how to safely move a physically disabled client from the wheelchair to a bed. What action should the nurse recommended?

Answer 1

The nurse should teach the UAPs to assess the patient’s ability to assist, explain the procedure, prepare the environment, practice proper body mechanics, use a firm footing, utilize transfer devices, and maintain safety and comfort during the transfer process.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should recommend safe transfer techniques which include assessing the patient’s physical abilities and level of mobility, explaining the procedure clearly to the patient, using proper body mechanics, and ensuring that any necessary assistive devices are within reach.

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Evaluate the patient’s ability to assist with the transfer. This may include assessing their strength, balance, and level of consciousness.
2. Explain the procedure to the patient to ensure they understand the steps involved and can cooperate as needed.
3. Prepare the environment by removing any obstacles between the wheelchair and the bed, adjusting the height of the bed to the level of the wheelchair, and locking the wheelchair’s brakes to prevent movement.
4. Practice proper body mechanics by keeping the back straight, bending at the knees, and avoiding twisting. The nurse should demonstrate this to the UAP.
5. Position the UAP to have a firm footing and instruct them to use their leg muscles when lifting or moving the patient to alleviate stress on the back.
6. If necessary, utilize transfer devices such as a transfer board, gait belt, or mechanical lift for additional support.
7. Move the patient in a smooth, coordinated manner while maintaining open communication.

Maintaining patient safety and comfort throughout the transfer is critically important, as is the safety of the healthcare provider performing the transfer.