A nurse is preparing to safely transfer a client with right-sided hemiparesis (weakness) from the bed to a wheelchair. Arrange the following nursing actions in the correct chronological order.
- 1Place the wheelchair at a 45-degree angle on the client's left side and lock the brakes.
- 2Assist the client to a sitting position on the edge of the bed and ensure their feet rest flat on the floor.
- 3Apply a transfer (gait) belt securely around the client's waist.
- 4Instruct the client to bear weight on their left leg while assisting them to a standing position.
- 5Pivot the client until the back of their knees touches the wheelchair seat before slowly lowering them.
Answer
The safe order of operations is to first prepare the environment by positioning the wheelchair on the strong side, sit the client up to establish balance, apply the safety gait belt, assist to a standing position using the strong leg, and finally pivot until the client feels the chair before sitting.
According to safe mobility principles, transferring a client with unilateral weakness requires prioritizing environmental readiness and leveraging the client's strong side. Positioning the chair on the unaffected side allows the client to bear weight and pivot safely. Dangling prevents orthostatic hypotension, and applying a gait belt ensures physical control. Finally, standing, pivoting, and using tactile confirmation (knees touching the chair) ensure a safe descent into the wheelchair.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Safe Client Transfer Principles and Mobility
Estimated Time:1m 0s