You are performing a lateral transfer of your patient from the bed to a stretcher in the ICU. No one is available to assist you with the transfer, but you do have an air cushion transfer device. Where should you position yourself for the safest transfer once the device is in place?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Positioning yourself on the far side of the stretcher, at the patient's trunk, is the safest choice. This will allow you maximum control over the air cushion transfer device during the lateral transfer. It also allows you to monitor the patient's breathing and overall condition during the transfer, making it the most optimal position for patient safety. The other options, such as being at the foot of the device or beside the bed, may not provide as much control over the device or visibility of the patient during the transfer. Being at the head of the device is also not recommended because it puts the patient's head in a vulnerable position and may not allow for easy control of the transfer device.

You Are Performing a Lateral Transfer of Your Patient from the Bed