WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
Although moving an incapacitated person from bed to a
chair can be a genuine physical challenge, the procedure
outlined below should make it easier. One word of warning:
Whenever you lift, bend at the knees and hips while keeping
your back straight. Always use your knees and legs to lift,
rather than your back. Don't twist your body while moving or
lifting.
WHAT YOU SHOULD
DO
-
Prepare for the move by
placing a wheelchair or a chair with armrests close to the
bed. If you are using a wheelchair, remember to lock the
wheels before you begin. If the patient is in a hospital
bed, lock the wheels and lower the side
rails.
-
The patient needs to be at
the edge of the bed. If he can't move himself, do it for
him by bending your knees, putting your hands and arms
under his lower back, and sliding him to the
edge.
-
Spread your feet apart and
bend your knees. Move the patient's legs so that they are
hanging over the edge of the bed. Put your hands behind the
patient's shoulders and ask him to push up from the bed if
possible. If he can't, raise him to a sitting position by
moving your weight from the foot closest to his head to the
one closest to his feet.
-
To prevent a fall, stand in
front of the patient until he's settled. Help him put on
slippers or shoes with non-skid soles to prevent slipping
or sliding, then ask him to try to stand up. Stay nearby in
case your support is needed.
-
To help the patient stand,
straddle his legs, bend your knees, put your arms around
his waist, and pull him up while straightening your knees.
Ask him to help by pushing up from the bed as much as he
can.
-
With the patient's waist
still in your grasp, turn yourself and the patient until
his back is towards the chair. Then lower him into the
chair by bending at your knees and hips.
-
Adjust the patient's position
so that his lower back is supported by the back of the
chair, his upper body is straight, and his feet are on the
floor.
-
For extra support, place
pillows on either side of the patient or behind his back.
Pillows can also be used to keep him from moving or sliding
in the chair. A lightweight folded blanket placed around
his waist and tied behind the chair will keep him from
falling or sliding out.
-
If the person is confused and
there is a danger of his falling while attempting to get
out of the chair, you should stay in the
room.
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