Proper technique is required for the transfer of patients without causing injury to the patient or the people giving assistance. OSHA has issued guidance for the transfer of patients in nursing homes to help reduce worker injuries.
Questions:
(1) Is the patient cooperative?
(2) Can the patient bear her or his weight?
(3) Does the stretcher or table have an adjustable height?
Patient Co-operative? |
Weight Bearing? |
Height Adjustable? |
Transfer Method |
no |
NA |
NA |
use full-body sling lift and 2 or more caregivers |
yes |
fully |
NA |
caregiver assistance not needed; stand by for safety as needed |
yes |
partially |
yes |
lower stretcher/table to lower level and use a non-powered stand-assist aid |
yes |
partially |
no |
use a full-body sling lift and 2 or more caregivers |
yes |
no |
NA |
use a full-body sling lift and 2 or more caregivers |
where:
• If the chair has wheels then they should be locked.
• If the stretcher or exam table have wheels, then they should be locked.
• Stretchers and exam tables should ideally have height adjustments.
Purpose: To transfer a patient from a chair to a stretcher or exam table using an OSHA approved technique.
Specialty: Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation
Objective: disability and performance, prevention
ICD-10: ,