The technique for transferring a patient from a bed to a chair depends upon the patient's condition and his ability to bear weight and assist in the transfer. Special consideration must be given for patients who are paralyzed or have injuries to extremities. At times the use of a hoist or other machinery will be preferable.
Basic Method
Patients should only be moved with the OK of their physician. Because of the risk of injury to both patient and caregiver, some organizations have instituted a "No Lift" policy, whereby patients may not be transferred manually, but rather only by means of mechanical lift chairs or hoists.
If you have determined it's OK to transfer the patient manually, explain to the patient what you plan to do. Place the chair facing the bed or at a 45-degree angle to the bed. If the patient is in a wheelchair, lock the wheels of the chair. Make sure the wheelchair's footrests are moved out of the way.
Make sure the bed is in its lowest position and any side rails are lowered. Raise the head of the bed to the highest position the patient will tolerate.
Help the patient roll onto his side, facing the chair. Position one arm under the patient's shoulders and the other over his thighs. Swing his legs over the side of the bed and help him into a sitting position.
Put your arms around the patient's torso and help him to move to the edge of the bed. If possible, have him place both feet flat on the floor. Position one foot in front of the patient's toes and brace your knee in front of his leg. If he is able, ask him to put one hand over your shoulder.
Ask the patient to put his hands on the edge of the bed and push off. Keep your knees slightly bent. As he pushes, straighten your knees and hips, lifting the patient. Pivot toward the chair. Keep your back as straight as possible.
Ask the patient to grasp the arms of the wheelchair when he feels the chair against the back of his legs. Keep your back straight and flex your knees as you lower him into the chair.
Help position the patient comfortably in the chair. In a wheelchair, properly position the footrests.
Alternate Methods
You may use a transfer belt (also called a gait belt) around the patient's torso to assist with the transfer. For larger patients or for added stability, two people may assist with the transfer. In this case, one person helps the patient swing his legs over the side of the bed while the other helps raise him into a sitting position. The two caregivers support the patient between them as they lift and pivot him until his back is to the chair, then both help him to lower into the chair.
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