Monday, 17 August 2015

6 Tips for wheelchair transfers

Lifting and moving patients to and from a wheelchair is a big responsibility for a carer. Moving patients requires physical strength but also a knowledge of technique so that neither the patient nor the carer are injured.

Take note of these safety tips before attempting to move someone who is wheelchair bound:

• Both carer and patient should always wear non-slip shoes that create a firm and stable grip. If you are a carer, buying a good pair of running shoes will be worth the money spent to avoid injury.

• Lock the wheels of the wheelchair immediately after stopping. Get into a habit of doing this and you won’t forget. It is extremely hazardous to move someone if the brakes have not been locked, even on level terrain or carpeting.

• Is the wheelchair new or old? Look carefully at the transfer aids to see if they have worn. If there is loose stitching or strapping, or rusted chains or hooks then avoid them.

• Park the wheelchair as close as possible to the area where you will do the transfer. Do not attempt to carry a patient further than is absolutely necessary. If you need to, get others to move furniture or anything that is mobile in order to close the gap between transfer areas.

• Talk to the person you are transferring. Regardless of their coherence, always assume that what you are saying is being understood. Carefully explain how you plan to do the transfer before you do it, and then talk about what you are doing during the transfer.

• Lower the bed to the height of the wheelchair and raise the head of the bed if possible, so that you do not have to bend too far to lay them flat.

To avoid injuring yourself when moving someone:

Never twist your body, always keep your spine straight. Keep your feet apart and use your leg muscles to lift, never bend and lift. This will severely damage your back. Position the patient’s feet on the floor for balance and allow them to hold on to your shoulders for support.

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