Patient Mobility & Transfers Flashcards
7 cards from real PCA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Patient Mobility & Transfers flashcards as text
When using a gait belt to assist a patient who begins to fall during ambulation, the PCA should:
Answer: Guide the patient to the floor in a controlled manner
If a patient starts to fall, the PCA should use the gait belt to guide them gently to the floor rather than trying to stop the fall, which could injure both the patient and the caregiver.
A transfer board (sliding board) is MOST appropriate for which type of patient?
Answer: A patient who is completely non-weight-bearing and can assist with upper body strength
Sliding/transfer boards are designed for patients who cannot bear weight on their legs but have enough upper body strength to assist with the lateral transfer.
During a standing pivot transfer from bed to wheelchair, where should the wheelchair be positioned?
Answer: At a 30- to 45-degree angle to the bed, on the patient's stronger side
Placing the wheelchair at a 30–45 degree angle to the bed on the patient's stronger side minimizes the pivot distance and leverages their stronger limb.
Before operating a mechanical (Hoyer) lift, the PCA must first:
Answer: Verify the sling is the correct size and properly positioned under the patient
The correct sling size and proper placement under the patient before lifting are essential safety steps to prevent the patient from slipping or being injured.
A patient reports feeling dizzy when sitting up on the edge of the bed before a transfer. The PCA should:
Answer: Have the patient lie back down and notify the nurse or supervisor
Dizziness before a transfer is a safety concern that must be reported; proceeding risks a fall, and the nurse must assess for orthostatic hypotension or other causes.
Which action best demonstrates proper body mechanics for a PCA during a transfer?
Answer: Widening the base of support and bending at the knees
A wide stance and bending at the knees keeps the PCA's center of gravity low and protects the lower back from injury.
When transferring a patient with left-sided weakness from a wheelchair to the toilet, the PCA should approach:
Answer: From the patient's right (strong) side so they can push off with their stronger leg
Approaching from the stronger side allows the patient to use their stronger leg to bear weight and push off, making the transfer safer.