Which side should move first for a transfer of a resident from bed to chair or chair to bed weak side or strong side?

Recommended textbook solutions

Clinical Reasoning Cases in Nursing

7th EditionJulie S Snyder, Mariann M Harding

2,512 solutions

Pharmacology and the Nursing Process

7th EditionJulie S Snyder, Linda Lilley, Shelly Collins

382 solutions

Winningham's Critical Thinking Cases in Nursing

6th EditionJulie S Snyder, Mariann M Harding

2,214 solutions

Medical Assisting Review: Passing The CMA, RMA, and CCMA Exams

7th EditionJahangir Moini

1,975 solutions

Moving Patients from Bed to Wheelchair

Using a transfer belt can help make moving patients safer.

Patient safety is often the main concern when moving patients from bed. But remember not to lift at the expense of your own back. This transfer often requires the patient's help, so clear communication is essential. If the patient can’t help much, you’ll need two peopl or a fully body sling lift.

Remember: When patients are weak, brace your knees against theirs to keep their legs from buckling. Also, transfer toward patient’s stronger side if possible.

Step 1.  Sit the patient up

• Position and lock the wheelchair close to the bed. Remove the armrest nearest to the bed, and swing away both leg rests.
• Help the patient turn onto his or her side, facing the wheelchair.
• Put an arm under the patient’s neck with your hand supporting the shoulder blade; put your other hand under the knees.
• Swing the patient's legs over the edge of the bed, helping the patient to sit up.

Step 2.  Stand the patient up

• Have the patient scoot to the edge of the bed.
• Assist the patient in putting on skid proof socks or shoes.
• Put your arms around the patient’s chest, and clasp your hands behind his or her back. Or, you may also use a transfer belt to provide a firm handhold.
• Supporting the leg farthest from the wheelchair between your legs, lean back, shift your weight, and lift.

Step 3.  Pivot toward chair

• Have the patient pivot toward the chair, as you continue to clasp your hands around the patient.
• A helper can support the wheelchair or patient from behind.

Step 4.  Sit the patient down

• As the patient bends toward you, bend your knees and lower the patient into the back of the wheelchair.
• A helper may position the patient’s buttocks and support the chair.
• Reposition the foot rests and the patient's feet.

StayWell last reviewed this educational content on 3/1/2018

© 2000-2021 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

Transferring a Care Recipient

Snow on the ground and a few well-placed wreaths add a holiday feel to an old stone bridge in Holliston/Photo By Stephen Corso

How to transfer to and from a bed to a chair or wheelchair

Although it is possible to move a person from a bed to a chair independently, it is recommended that two people perform the procedure for someone who is very weak or unable to support him or herself.

Consult your physician or a physical therapist for advice on assistive devices that may make transferring a person from a bed to a chair easier such as slide boards, gait belts, lifts and wheelchairs with removable arms.

Note: If someone has a weaker side, for example after a stroke, place the wheelchair on the unaffected or strongest side.

Fall colors shine brightly on Natick Common in the autumn/Photo By Douglas Flynn

Transfer process:

• Wash your hands.
• Inform the person what you are going to do.
• If it is a hospital bed or adjustable bed place it in the position with the head of the bed up as high as possible, if the person can tolerate this position comfortably.
• Move the chair to the side of the bed near the feet, on the strong side if the person has a weakened side; the chair should be parallel to the bed, but angled slightly out with the front wheel snug against the bed.
• If it is a wheelchair lock it; be sure to lock both wheels.
• Have the person scoot to the edge of the bed close to you.
• Have them uncross their legs and cross their arms on their chest.
• Put one hand under the shoulder.
• Put the other hand across the body and grasp the side of the knee farthest from you.
• Inform them you’ll move them on three, then count to three.
• Lift and swing them into a sitting position.
• Put on shoes.
• If using a gait belt put it on; if fitted properly four fingers should fit inside the belt laid flat against the abdomen.
• Have the person put their feet together and put their hands on your shoulder.
• Grasp the gait belt on the sides, or if you’re not using one put your hand on their waist. You may want to hold onto the waistband of the pants or belt.
• Put your foot that is away from the chair sideways in front of their toes.
• Again, “on the count of three” assist them to stand and pivot in one smooth motion into the chair.
• Remove the belt.
• Wash hands.

Contributed by Sara Miller, RN

NOTE: This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical or professional care, and you should not use the information in place of a visit, call consultation or the advice of your physician or other healthcare provider. BayPath is not liable or responsible for the opinion of the author. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk.

When transferring a person which side moves first?

Which side should the patient be transferred on when performing wheelchair transfer?

When you transfer a resident from the bed to the chair you should?

What is the first step when transferring a client out of bed to a wheelchair?