This document provides instructions for safely transferring patients from bed to wheelchair. It outlines key safety considerations like ensuring rails are up, wheels are locked, and using a transfer belt. The main steps are: 1) getting ready by washing hands and explaining the procedure; 2) applying a transfer belt for stability; and 3) using proper body mechanics and communication during the transfer. Additional safety tips emphasize knowing the patient's abilities, using the right equipment, and reporting any issues.

1. Prepared by: Jessica M. Saldana MAN., RN.,
BSN
Transfer Patient from bed to
wheelchair

2. Getting Ready
Safety Considerations
Applying a transfer (gait) belt
Transfer from bed to wheel chair
Transfer from wheelchair to bed
Transfer from bed to wheel chair ( 2 assistants)
Transfer from car to wheelchair
Transfer from wheelchair to car
Finishing up

3. Transfer – moving from one place to another .
e,g, wheel chair to bed bed to chair etc.

4. GETTING READY
 Getting ready for your self
 Wash your hands
 Gather all needed supplies
 Knock before entering patients room
 Introduce your self by NAME and TITLE
 Greet the patient by name
 Identify the person
 Explain the procedure
 Provide privacy
 Safety

5. SEE TO SAFETY
 Rails
 Before you start a transfer-even a simple one- PLAN the
transfer.
 Ask the nurse or Physical therapist about any limitations
the person has and what the recommended transfer
method is.
 Get help from other if necessary, especially if heavy lifting

6. SEE TO SAFETY
 Consider using assistive device or equipment ( transfer
belt, mechanical lift)
 Make sure all wheels are locked on bed, stretcher, and
wheelchair from rolling out from under the patient.
 Move furniture out of the way before you start.

7. SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
 Keep patient or resident safe.
 Follow the plan – whether your working alone or with
assistance
 Remember to give the person clear instructions and
encouragement throughout the transfer
 Make sure the person lead with her strong side if
possible
 Make sure the person’s clothing doesn’t interfere with
the transfer and that should provide support and have
a non skid shoes.

8. SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
 Have unsteady people grasp your arms or the arm of the
chair for support.
 DO NOT allow the person to hold you around your neck.
 Place your hand either on the transfer belt, or beind the
person’s upper back.
 DO NOT place your hands under the person’s armpit to
help support him/her.

9. NO TRANSFER BELT TO FOLLOWING PATIENTS:
 Patient with abdominal surgeries
 Heart disorders
 IF IN DOUBT ASK THE NURSE.

10. Safety Considerations
Observe Body Mechanics and safety back
Body Mechanics- The way you align, balance and coordinate
your movement.

11. Body Mechanics
A - ALIGNMENT – good posture
B - BALANCE- wide base of support
C - COORDIANTION- wt. of body

12. Safety Considerations
Additional Safety Considerations
1. Know your patient or residence.
2. Never assume anything about the person’s abilities.
3. Before proceeding, make sure you have checked to see
what type of assistance the person will require.
4. Use the proper equipment to assist with your transfer
according to the special needs of the person( e,g, transfer
belt or mechanical lift)

13. Safety Considerations
Additional Safety Considerations
5. A transfer belt is used to lift a person who cannot bear
weight. A person who is unable to bear weight should be
moved with MECHANICAL LIFT device.
Complete the transfer if
6. Tell the nurse if the patient
a. Complains of dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain,
rapid or irregular heart beat or sudden head pain.
b. Complains of pain when he/she tries to bear weight
and this is new.

14. Safety Considerations
Additional Safety Considerations
6. c. Observe any changes in person’s usual grip, strength or
ability .
d. Usual cooperative person refuse to participate.
e. Equipment is not working properly or is broken.

15. Finishing Up:
1. Confirm comfort and good body alignment.
2. Leave the patient’s call light within his/her reach, or any
personal items such as telephone, remote control or fresh
water.
3. Seek safety, if appropriate lower down the bed to its
lowest position.
4. Make sure the wheels are locked for safety and place the
side rails as requested by the patient.

16. Finishing Up:
5. If desired, open the curtain and ask whether he/she wants
her visitor to return.
6. Discard gloves as per hospital policy if applicable.
7. Wash hands
8. Report and record all pertinent data including
a. Time and date of procedure.
b. Full name and title