Upon arrival at a facility, it is your responsibility to assist with moving the patient to the facility bed. The following are common methods of transfer and associated considerations.

Walk/Self Transfer:

This refers to the patient moving from the pram to the facility bed under their own power.

• Pram should be lowered so that the patient’s feet touch the ground when sitting on the side of the pram.

• Have the patient sit up with their legs over the edge of the pram for a moment prior to standing to ensure they are not dizzy or unstable.

• Assist the patient to the bed while maintaining contact with them at all times in case they become unstable.

Self-Scoot:

This refers to the patient “scooting” from the pram to the facility bed under their own power.

• Place the pram as close to the bed as possible.

• Raise/lower the pram to be of even height with the bed.

• Ensure all seatbelts have been removed and are clear of the patient.

• Ensure that there is enough slack in I.V. lines to complete the move.

• Brace the pram against the bed. When the patient pushes off the pram, it will tend to move away from the bed.

Sheet Slide/Slide Board:

Patients that are weak/sedated/unconscious must be moved to the bed with total assistance.

• Ensure that there is enough personnel to safely move the patient.

• Ensure that there is enough slack in I.V. lines/tubes/wires to facilitate the move.

• If the patient is intubated, someone MUST be in control of the head/tube.

• Ensure that all seat belts are removed and clear of the patient.

• Place the pram as close as possible to the bed.

• Raise/lower the pram to be of even height with the bed.

• Brace the pram against the bed.

• The person at the head directs the movement.