Question

Difficulty: EasyBasic Care and Comfort

An older adult client with generalized weakness is preparing to get out of bed for the first time today. In what order should the following actions be performed to safely transfer the client to a wheelchair? (Arrange the steps in the correct sequence, from first to last.)

  1. 1Lock the wheels on both the bed and the wheelchair.
  2. 2Assist the client to a sitting position on the edge of the bed.
  3. 3Place a transfer belt securely around the client's waist.
  4. 4Stand facing the client and assist them to stand and pivot toward the chair.
  5. 5Instruct the client to grasp the wheelchair armrests while lowering into the seat.

Answer

First, lock the wheels on the bed and wheelchair. Second, assist the client to sit on the edge of the bed. Third, place the transfer belt. Fourth, assist the client to stand and pivot. Finally, have the client grasp the armrests while sitting down.
Safe transfer protocols require establishing a stable environment first by locking all wheels. Next, physiological safety is ensured by allowing the client to adjust to sitting. Then, physical safety devices like a transfer belt are applied. Only after these preparations should the physical movement (standing and pivoting) occur, ending with a controlled descent using the armrests.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Secure all equipment by locking the wheels.
The bed and wheelchair are completely stationary.
Prevents accidental movement that could lead to a fall during the transfer.
2
Help the client sit up on the side of the bed.
The client is dangling their legs over the edge of the mattress.
Allows the cardiovascular system to adjust to the upright position, reducing the risk of dizziness.
3
Apply the transfer belt around the client's waist.
The care provider has a safe, secure handhold on the client.
Provides mechanical advantage and prevents injury to both the client and the provider during the physical lift.
4
Assist the client to stand up and pivot.
The client is standing and aligned with the wheelchair.
Moves the client's center of gravity from the bed to the chair in a controlled motion.
5
Guide the client to reach for the armrests and sit.
The client is safely seated in the wheelchair.
Reaching for the armrests provides stability and allows for a controlled descent into the chair.

Key Concept

Safe client transfer techniques and basic mobility assistance
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