Describe the correct technique for transferring a patient from bed to wheelchair using a gait belt.

• A. Stand on the weak side, place the belt around the patient’s chest, lock your feet, bend your knees, pivot to stand, and slide the patient into the chair with the belt providing support.
• B. Stand on the strong side, place the belt around the patient’s center of gravity, lock your feet, bend your knees, pivot to stand, and slide the patient into the chair with the belt providing support.
• C. Lift the patient from bed with no belt, keep back straight.
• D. Stand behind the patient, belt around waist, push forward.

Answer: (B)

Safe transfer relies on proper body mechanics and using the gait belt to control the move. Stand on the patient’s strong side to maintain better balance and control as you shift weight. Place the gait belt around the patient’s waist at the center of gravity, not around the chest, so you have a secure, midline grip to guide and support the movement. Keep your feet in a stable stance with your knees bent and your back aligned, then hinge at the hips and knees to rise as a unit rather than twisting the spine. Pivot to stand with the belt providing guidance and support, and then guide the patient into the wheelchair, using the belt to assist and prevent a fall. Lock the wheelchair brakes and ensure the patient is seated comfortably with feet supported. This approach minimizes risk to both you and the patient and maintains control throughout the transfer.