Mobility and Transfer Techniques Flashcards

Before using a Hoyer (mechanical) lift to transfer a patient, what is the FIRST thing the HHA must check?

Answer: That the sling weight limit exceeds the patient's weight

The sling must be rated for at least the patient's body weight to prevent equipment failure and injury.

When two HHAs perform a transfer from bed to wheelchair, who should give the verbal count and cues?

Answer: One designated HHA to keep movements synchronized

One designated HHA calls the count to synchronize movement and prevent injury from mistimed effort.

When repositioning a patient in bed using a draw sheet, the HHA should:

Answer: Roll the sheet close to the patient's body before lifting

Rolling the draw sheet close to the patient's body provides a firm grip and reduces friction injuries to the skin.

During a pivot transfer from wheelchair to bed, the patient's feet should be:

Answer: Flat on the floor and hip-width apart

Feet flat on the floor hip-width apart provides a stable base of support during the pivot transfer.

A patient has left-sided weakness after a stroke. When transferring from wheelchair to bed, the wheelchair should be positioned:

Answer: On the patient's right (strong) side at a 45-degree angle

Positioning the wheelchair on the strong side allows the patient to lead the transfer with their stronger limb.

When a mechanical sling is placed under a patient before a Hoyer lift transfer, the top edge of the sling should be:

Answer: At the patient's neck or upper shoulder level

The sling's top edge at the neck or upper shoulder supports the head and prevents the patient from slipping through.

After transferring a patient from bed to wheelchair using a mechanical lift, the HHA should FIRST:

Answer: Lock the wheelchair and ensure the patient is seated safely

Locking the wheelchair and confirming the patient is securely seated prevents falls immediately after transfer.