How do I transfer a patient to a stretcher?

How to Safely Transfer a Patient to a Stretcher

Transferring a patient to a stretcher is a common procedure in healthcare, but it requires careful technique to ensure the safety and comfort of both the patient and the caregivers. A proper transfer minimizes the risk of injury, such as falls or muscle strains.

Assess the Situation First

Before you begin, always take a moment to assess the situation:

• Patient's Condition: Can the patient assist with the transfer? Are they conscious, able to follow commands, or do they have any injuries (e.g., spinal, fractures) that require special precautions? What is their weight?

• Environment: Is there enough space around the bed and stretcher? Are there any obstacles? Is the lighting adequate?

• Equipment: Is the stretcher at the correct height? Are its wheels locked? Do you have any necessary aids like slide sheets, transfer boards, or extra personnel?

Prepare for the Transfer

Preparation is key to a smooth transfer:

1. Communicate with the Patient: Clearly explain each step of the transfer to the patient, even if they appear unresponsive. This helps them cooperate if possible and reduces anxiety.

2. Gather Personnel: Determine how many people are needed. For most transfers, at least two caregivers are recommended. For heavier patients or those with complex injuries, three or more may be required.

3. Position the Stretcher: Bring the stretcher alongside the bed. Ensure the stretcher height is level with or slightly lower than the bed to facilitate a smooth slide.

4. Lock Wheels: Crucially, lock the wheels on both the bed and the stretcher to prevent any unwanted movement during the transfer.

5. Lower Side Rails: Lower the side rails on the bed and the stretcher on the side where the transfer will occur.

The Transfer Techniques

The method you use depends largely on the patient's ability to assist.

A. Assisted Transfer (Patient Can Help)

1. Patient Positioning: Ask the patient to bend their knees, place their feet flat on the bed, and push off with their legs. They can also use their arms to push off the bed if able.

2. Caregiver Guidance: One caregiver can stand at the patient's head, supporting their neck and shoulders, while the other stands at the hips, guiding the patient's movement towards the stretcher.

3. Count and Move: On a count of three, have the patient push while caregivers gently guide and slide them onto the stretcher.

B. Independent Slide with Transfer Aid (Patient has some ability, or using a board/sheet)

1. Position the Aid: If using a slide sheet or transfer board, roll the patient slightly onto their side (away from the stretcher) and position the aid partially underneath them.

2. Return to Flat: Roll the patient back onto the aid, ensuring they are centered.

3. Caregiver Positions: Caregivers should be on both sides of the bed/stretcher.

4. Slide: Using the slide sheet, the caregivers can gently pull the sheet towards the stretcher, effectively sliding the patient across. If using a transfer board, caregivers will guide the patient's movement over the board.

C. Full Lift or Dependent Transfer (Patient Cannot Assist)

1. Gather Personnel: This method always requires at least three caregivers.

2. Use a Draw Sheet/Slide Sheet: Position a strong draw sheet or slide sheet underneath the patient, extending from shoulders to beyond the hips.

3. Caregiver Positions: Two caregivers stand on the stretcher side, grasping the sheet firmly near the patient's torso and legs. One caregiver stands at the head of the bed, supporting the patient's head and upper body.

4. Synchronized Lift/Slide: On a clear command (e.g., "1, 2, 3, pull!"), all caregivers work together to lift and slide the patient smoothly from the bed onto the stretcher. Ensure the patient's head and spine remain aligned.