A nurse is preparing to transfer a client who has right-sided weakness from the bed to a wheelchair. To ensure the safety of the client and prevent injury, arrange the following steps in the correct chronological order.
- 1Place the wheelchair on the client's left side at a 45-degree angle to the bed.
- 2Lock the brakes on both the bed and the wheelchair.
- 3Lower the bed and assist the client to sit on the edge with their feet flat on the floor.
- 4Secure a transfer (gait) belt around the client's waist.
- 5Assist the client to stand, bear weight on the left leg, and pivot to the wheelchair.
Answer
The correct sequence is to position the wheelchair on the client's strong side, lock the brakes, assist the client to a seated position on the edge of the bed, apply a gait belt, and finally assist the client to stand and pivot.
The correct sequence prioritizes environmental safety by positioning and locking the equipment before attempting to move the client. Mobilization is then done progressively—sitting the client up, securing a gait belt, and finally performing the pivot transfer—to systematically minimize the risk of falls and injury.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Safe patient handling and transfer techniques