How to Transfer People from a Bed to a Wheelchair

Transferring a person from a bed to a wheelchair can be a difficult task, especially if you've never done it before. You may be scared you'll hurt the person or do something wrong and end up hurting yourself. Either way, if you take time to think the process through, you'll find the task much easier and less daunting.

Instructions

• 1

  Explain to the person you are moving exactly how you plan to move him from the bed to his wheelchair. He will then know what to expect and you will be able to trust one another. If he's been in his current condition for a while, he may be able to give you some pointers during this discussion.

• 2

  Park the wheelchair as close as you can to the bed, and lock the wheels into place to prevent it from rolling backwards.

• 3

  Roll the person onto his side, facing the side of the bed where the wheelchair is located, and make sure his knees are bent.

• 4

  Gently lower the person's legs from the knees down off the side of the bed.

• 5

  Sit beside the person on the bed and place your arm or arms around his upper body, easing him into an upright, sitting position. Place non-slip shoes or slippers on his feet.

• 6

  Help the person scoot along the side of the bed if needed so he is closer to the wheelchair. He'll be going backwards into the wheelchair, so you don't want him to have to take a step backwards while you lower him.

• 7

  Stand in front of the person and bend your knees, curving your back forward. Thread your arms underneath his neck, holding onto his lower back. Have him grab onto your shoulders or your upper back, but not your neck.

• 8

  Gently lift him up and turn until he's in a position that allows you to easily guide him down into his wheelchair. Make sure he is sitting comfortably before you lower the foot rests or unlock the wheels.