Transfer proceedures

MOVEMENT DISORDERS IN SPINAL CORD INJURY: TRANSFER PROCEEDURES

TRANSFERRING THE PATIENT

Once Range of Motion exercises have begun and you are able to balance yourself and assume a sitting position, with or without a brace, you are ready for transfer from one place to another, e.g. from the bed to the wheelchair. There are various transfer procedures and devices. Your degree of mobility and the strength and number of people available to help you will determine which method is best for you. There are manual and mechanical transfer procedures and devices.

Two-person lift

At least two individuals physically lift you in order to transfer you from one place to another.

Pivot

In the pivot transfer, one person grasps you around your body and the other person grasps your pants or skirt. Using a rocking motion, they lift you and pivot your feet in the direction of the surface to which you are being transferred.

Slide board

A slide board is a smooth, rectangular board, usually made of wood with beveled edges, approximately 8 inches wide and two feet long. The slide board is positioned between the edges of the surfaces that you want to transfer out of and into. For example, the board is positioned between the edge of the bed and the edge of wheelchair to transfer you from the bed to the wheelchair. One person grasps you around the body. The other person grasps your pants or skirt. Together, they slide you from one surface to the other. You may be able, but need not assist with this method of transfer.

Gait belt

A gait belt is usually made of nylon, is approximately 2 inches wide, varies in length, and has an adjustable, belt-like loop buckle closure. The gait belt is placed around your waist and grasped by the people who are doing the transfer.

Mechanical Lifts

To use a mechanical lift to transfer you, a sling must first be placed under you. This is done by rolling you from side to side. Once the sling is positioned under you, it is attached to the lift using hooks, straps, or other devices.

There are several types of mechanical lifts. To use a direct drive lift, the person must crank the handle in large circular motions to raise and lower you. To use a hydraulic lift, the person most pump the handle up and down to raise and lower you. Depending on the type of hydraulic lift, the person may also have to pull you while you are in the sling to position you properly.