Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. 130 TRANSFERS PURPOSE: Proper transfer procedures will be followed to move or assist patients to move safely. RESPONSIBLE STAFF: All staff SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: It is particularly important in the home setting that the patient be involved in planning and goal setting so that safety risks can be minimized and mutual goals established. The distance for transfers should be minimized. This may involve moving furniture. The degree of family involvement will influence the success of the health care team's goals. Avoid any activity which is beyond your capabilities and summon help. PROCEDURE: A. Moving Patient to One Side of Bed 1. Stand on opposite side of bed than the patient will face. 2. Keep body straight; bend forward at hips. Put one foot slightly in front of the other. 3. Place one hand under patient's shoulders and one under hips. Flex your arms, thereby bringing patient toward you. 4. Position patient with pillow supports. B. Moving a Non-Assistive Patient up in the Bed 1. Position bed in flat position. 2. Fold a sheet lengthwise and place under patient from head to hips. 3. Go to head of bed and pull the sheet toward you. C. Moving Assistive Patient up in the Bed 1. Explain procedure to patient. Position bed in flat position. 2. Turn patient on back and instruct patient to bend his knees. 3. Keep your body straight and bend forward at the hips. Slip one arm under patient's shoulder. 4. Tighten hip and thigh muscles. On the count of three, have patient press down with heels as you lift and push toward head of bed. 5. Repeat until correct position is obtained. D. Transfer Assistive Patient from Bed to Chair 1. Position bed in flat position unless contraindicated. 2. Instruct patient to roll to edge of bed, turn on side, bend elbow, push up, swinging egs off bed. 3. Assist patient in putting on shoes, robe, etc. Allow time for patient to establish equilibrium.