Safe stand-pivot transfer, step by step
2 min readModule 7, Lesson 1 — Safely Assist with Walking and Transfers
Prepare the surfaces, use a gait belt if in the care plan, bend your knees with a straight back, and pivot your feet — never twist your spine or let the client pull on your neck.
- 1Prepare: bring the wheelchair/chair close at a slight angle, lock the brakes, clear the path, and tell the client each step before you do it.
- 2Position: client's feet flat on the floor, slightly apart; client scooted to the edge of the seat.
- 3Your body: stand close, feet shoulder-width, knees bent, back straight. Grip the gait belt (not the client's arms or clothing).
- 4Count '1-2-3, stand': help the client rock forward and stand, letting their legs do the work they can.
- 5Pivot: turn by stepping with your feet — small steps — never twist at the waist.
- 6Lower slowly: bend your knees as the client reaches back for the armrests and sits down.
If the client cannot bear weight, is much larger than you, or resists mid-transfer, stop and lower them safely — a transfer the care plan calls two-person or mechanical-lift is never a one-person job.
Call 911 immediately if
Client is unconscious, not breathing normally, bleeding heavily, or you suspect a head, neck, or spine injury.
What to remember
- —Prepare: bring the wheelchair/chair close at a slight angle, lock the brakes, clear the path, and tell the client each step before you do it..
- —Position: client's feet flat on the floor, slightly apart; client scooted to the edge of the seat..
- —Your body: stand close, feet shoulder-width, knees bent, back straight.