DCW Physical Mobility and Transfer Assistance 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of maintaining proper body alignment when positioning a bedridden client?
- To make the client appear more presentable to visitors
- To prevent complications such as pressure injuries, contractures, and circulatory problems (Correct answer)
- To make it easier for the caregiver to perform tasks
- To ensure the client remains awake and alert during the shift
Correct answer: To prevent complications such as pressure injuries, contractures, and circulatory problems
Proper body alignment prevents pressure injuries, contractures, respiratory compromise, and circulatory issues that develop when a bedridden client remains in one position.
Question 2: How often should a bedridden client typically be repositioned to prevent pressure injuries?
- Once per shift (every 8 hours)
- Every 4 hours during waking hours only
- Every 2 hours (Correct answer)
- Only when the client specifically requests it
Correct answer: Every 2 hours
Standard care guidelines require repositioning bedridden clients every 2 hours to relieve sustained pressure on bony prominences and prevent skin breakdown.
Question 3: What is the primary use of a transfer board (slide board)?
- To weigh the client during daily care routines
- To assist in moving a client from one surface to another at similar heights with minimal lifting (Correct answer)
- To splint and support injured limbs during a transfer
- To provide lumbar support for the caregiver during heavy lifting
Correct answer: To assist in moving a client from one surface to another at similar heights with minimal lifting
A transfer board bridges the gap between two surfaces, allowing the client to slide across with minimal lifting and reducing injury risk for both client and caregiver.
Question 4: When using a mechanical (Hoyer) lift to transfer a client, what is the recommended minimum number of staff members present?
- One staff member, since the lift does all the work
- Two staff members — one to operate the lift and one to guide and support the client (Correct answer)
- Three or more staff members at all times
- The number of staff is determined solely by the client's weight
Correct answer: Two staff members — one to operate the lift and one to guide and support the client
At least two staff should be present: one to operate the mechanical lift controls and one to guide, support, and monitor the client throughout the transfer.
Question 5: Before transferring a client into a wheelchair, what must the caregiver always check regarding the wheelchair?
- Remove the footrests to create more standing room
- Lock both wheelchair brakes so the chair cannot move (Correct answer)
- Position the wheelchair at a 90-degree angle to the bed at all times
- Raise the seat to its highest setting for easier transfer
Correct answer: Lock both wheelchair brakes so the chair cannot move
Locking both wheelchair brakes before the transfer prevents the chair from rolling away, which is a leading cause of transfer-related falls.
Question 6: Which position is most appropriate for a client experiencing difficulty breathing (dyspnea)?
- Prone position (lying face down)
- Supine position (lying flat on the back)
- Semi-Fowler's or Fowler's position (head of bed elevated 30–90 degrees) (Correct answer)
- Trendelenburg position (feet elevated above the head)
Correct answer: Semi-Fowler's or Fowler's position (head of bed elevated 30–90 degrees)
Elevating the head of the bed in Fowler's or semi-Fowler's position uses gravity to reduce pressure on the diaphragm and improve lung expansion.
Question 7: What is the correct action if a client begins to fall while being assisted with walking?
- Grab the client's arm and pull them back to a standing position quickly
- Step away from the client to avoid being pulled down with them
- Lower the client gently to the floor while protecting their head (Correct answer)
- Call for help and wait before taking any action
Correct answer: Lower the client gently to the floor while protecting their head
Lowering the client gently to the floor while protecting their head minimizes injury from an uncontrolled fall and is the safest caregiver response.
DCW Physical Mobility and Transfer Assistance 2
What is the primary purpose of maintaining proper body alignment when positioning a bedridden client?