How to Transfer Patients to Wheelchairs

Many patients use wheelchairs both permanently and during recovery. Some patients are not able to transfer themselves from their beds to their wheelchairs. These patients need support from another person to safely get into their wheelchairs. Transferring a patient from their bed to a wheelchair should be done carefully and properly. This ensures that neither you nor your patient is injured during the transfer process. Transferring patients from their beds to their wheelchairs does not require any special tools, only the correct technique.

Things You'll Need

• Wheelchair

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Instructions

• 1

  Place the wheelchair close to the bed. Lock the wheelchair.

• 2

  Turn the patient to one side, so that he or she is facing you.

• 3

  Place one arm under the patient's neck. Make sure your hand is supporting the part of the shoulder they are resting on.

• 4

  Place your other hand behind your patient's knees.

• 5

  Place the patient's legs over the edge of the bed. At the same time, use the hand on the patient's shoulder to help him sit up. Make sure the patient is sitting at the edge of the bed.

• 6

  Place your arms around the patient's chest. Clasp your hands before attempting to move the patient.

• 7

  Place your weight on the foot farthest from the wheelchair.

• 8

  Lift the patient.

• 9

  Pivot the patient toward the wheelchair while still supporting them.

• 10

  Bend your knees and place the patient in the wheelchair.