How to Use a Transfer Board With a Wheelchair

A transfer board assists caregivers in transferring a patient from a wheelchair to a chair or a bed. The transfer board allows the caregiver to help transfer the patient without putting additional strain on the patient or the caregiver's body. The transfer board is designed to help both the caregiver and the patient practice safe transfer techniques so that no one gets injured during the transfer from wheelchair to wherever the patient desires to go.

Instructions

• 1

  Remove the handle on the side of the wheelchair so that you have more room to move around.

• 2

  Inform the individual of the transfer that will take place and ask if you can help him or her transfer from one position to another.

• 3

  Place one side of the transfer board underneath the individual's buttocks and upper thigh.

• 4

  Place the other side of the transfer board on the chair or flat surface that the person is getting moved to.

• 5

  Cover the transfer board with a sheet if the individual is not wearing a lot of clothing. This prevents the person's skin from getting injured on the transfer board by accident.

• 6

  Assist the person across the transfer board. Place your hands on the person's waist or arm and help the person push him or herself across the board. Let the patient do as much of the transfer as he or she can, while you help him or her.

• 7

  Remove the transfer board out from under the individual and the sheet or protective item that you used to protect his or her skin. Move the wheelchair away from the person and help him or her get comfortable in the new position.