A practical nurse is preparing to transfer a client with left-sided hemiparesis from the bed to a wheelchair. In what order should the nurse perform the following actions? Arrange the steps in the correct sequence.
- 1Place the wheelchair parallel to the bed on the client's strong side and lock the wheels.
- 2Assist the client to sit on the edge of the bed and ensure they are wearing non-skid footwear.
- 3Secure a transfer belt around the client's waist over their clothing.
- 4Face the client, maintain a wide base of support, and brace the client's left knee and foot.
- 5Instruct the client to stand, pivot on the right leg, and reach back for the wheelchair armrests.
Answer
The correct sequence is to first position and lock the wheelchair on the strong side, sit the client on the edge of the bed with proper footwear, apply a transfer belt, brace the weak leg, and finally instruct the client to stand, pivot, and reach for the armrests.
Safe transfer of a client with one-sided weakness (hemiparesis) requires prioritizing the use of the unaffected side and maintaining strict fall precautions. The environment must first be prepared by placing the locked wheelchair on the strong side. The client is then safely positioned at the edge of the bed with non-skid footwear. A transfer belt is applied for grip, and the nurse must brace the weak leg to prevent buckling before initiating the stand-and-pivot motion.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Safe client transfer techniques for hemiparesis