Health and wellness of both your loved one and yourself is important.
General Considerations
- Allow the patient to help as much as possible.
- Estimate the patient’s weight and mentally practice.
- Make sure that the floor is free of any obstacles or liquids.
- Keep your feet shoulder width apart.
- Keep the person (or object) as close to your body as possible.
- Tighten your stomach muscles.
- Bend knees and hips, and keep your back in a neutral position throughout the movement.
- Lift with your legs, not your back
- Do not twist your back as you lift. To turn when lifting, pivot your feet.
- If you have doubts, ask for help.
Bed Mobility Key Points
- Adjust bed height to approximately waist height
- You should be able to stand comfortably with your back straight.
- Put one knee on the bed to allow you to get closer to the patient and keep your back straight.
- Communicate with the patient to allow them to assist if able.
- Do not lean over the patient to provide care.
Transfer Key Points
- If you are uncertain of how to perform a transfer, the patient’s ability to perform a transfer, or your ability to assist, ask for help.
- Communicate with the patient to allow them to assist if able.
- Use proper body mechanics.
- Always squat, bending both knees, or kneel on one knee to prevent bending and straining your back during transfers.
- Keep your back straight throughout the transfer.
- Get as close to the person (or object) as possible.
