1-Person or 2-Person Transfer From a Stationary Surface to a Wheel Chair

Table of Contents

Children sometimes need the assistance of a trained adult to transfer to a stationary surface to a wheel chair. The instructional steps assist the registered nurse working under the auspices of the school or program in professional judgement and accountability of delegation. Additional steps may be required depending on the learner’s health needs.

Steps

  1. Let the student know it’s time to transfer
  2. Wash your hands. Have or help the student wash their hands and assist as much as possible.
  3. Ensure the receiving surface is safe
  4. Clear the path
  5. Minimize the distance of the transfer if necessary:
    1. If the student is able, ask him to move his wheelchair to the proper position for the transfer
    2. If not, inform the student of your intention and move the chair into position yourself or with the assistance of two.
  6. Lock the wheelchair brakes
  7. Have the student lean slightly back and scoot forward
    1. Have the student put their feet flat on the floor
  8. Have the student lean forward
  9. Utilize a gait belt or additional transfer device with one person or two person assistance (if applicable)
  10. Have the student assist or stand (if applicable)
    1. Remember:
      1. Some students may be able to bear weight. Their ability is important to utilize and practice whenever they transfer.
      2. Except in emergencies (which are rare), never lift a student who cannot support any of their own weight
      3. Use a mechanical lift if the student is unable to support any of their own weight
  11. Transfer the student to wheelchair:
    1. For your own health and safety, be sure to maintain good body alignment while assisting the student
  12. Check the student’s response to the transfer:
    1. Ask the student if they are comfortable
    2. Observe for nonverbal communication
  13. While the student is leaned forward:
    1. Ensure the student is all the way back in chair & centered
    2. If the student is not centered and situated all the way back in the wheelchair, then the student’s posture will be poor
      1. This will lead to discomfort and fatigue
  14. Check the student’s response again:
    1. Ask the student if they are comfortable
    2. Observe for nonverbal communication
  15. Fasten the wheel chair seat belt around the student
    1. The belt should be secured snug and low across the lap to keep the student positioned properly
    2. Students who are able to reposition themselves will make their own adjustments to the seat belt’s tension
  16. Attach & adjust the wheelchair parts
    1. Adjust the footrests and position the student’s feet
    2. Place and secure any blocks or supports
    3. Attach and secure any chest, shoulder and head supports
    4. Attach the lap tray and any switches or other devices
  17. Release brakes
  18. Wash your hands. Have or help the student wash their hands.
  19. Document the date, time, procedure, assistance from other personnel (if applicable),  student’s  response, your initials and signature