Care Attendant 101: Proper Technique for Patient Transfers
Follwing safe procedure prevents injury for Health Care Assistants
Abbotsford, BC - March 10, 2010 - The Health Care Assistant's job description regularly involves performing patient transfers. It is very important that this be performed with proper technique, not only for the well being of the patient, but also for the safety of the health care worker as well.
Health care workers are often put in positions where the safety of their back is compromised if they do not perform proper technique in transferring patients.
Here are some basic steps to ensure safe patient transfers:
- Ensure orders have been given by the patient's physician. If the patient is "mechanical lift only", do not attempt to do a manual transfer.
- If the patient is suitable for manual transfer, walk the patient through what you are about to do.
- Make sure the bed is in its lowest position and any side rails are lowered. Raise the head of the bed to the highest position the patient will tolerate.
- Place the chair beside the bed, if transferring to a wheel chair, and ensure the brakes are on!
- Have the patient roll onto their side, position one arm behind the patient's shoulder and the other over their thighs. Swing the patient's legs over the edge of the bed, sitting them up at the same time.
- Help the patient position themselves at the edge of the bed, use a transfer belt for added safety. Make sure they are not experiencing any dizziness.
- On the count of three, slowly rock and patient and tell them to stand up on three. Ensure you have a strong stance with bent knees for support and that your hands are firmly holding the transfer belt.
- With the patient standing, pivot towards the chair, keeping your back straight. Ask the patient to grasp the arms of the wheelchair when they feel the chair against the back of their legs. Keep your back straight and flex your knees as you lower them into the chair. Help position the patient comfortably in the chair.
Always remember... Both your patient's and your safety as the Health Care Assistant, are number one!
Nursing - More News