Long-Term Care

Safely transferring residents

LTC Nursing Assistant Trainer, August 16, 2006

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Working in a nursing home requires CNAs to perform many physically demanding tasks. Here are some guidelines to help prevent injuries when attempting to lift, move, or transfer a resident:

  • Consider the resident's size and request assistance or use a mechanical lift, if necessary
  • Adjust the bed to the proper height for the type of transfer
  • Lock the wheels of the equipment
  • Ask the resident to assist you as much as possible
  • Tell the resident what you intend to do throughout the transfer
  • Bend your knees and keep your back straight
  • Avoid twisting movements
  • Pull, do not push
  • Move the resident toward his or her stronger side
  • Give short, simple directions
  • Coordinate everyone's movement
  • Use ambulatory/gait belts
  • Remove any obstacles



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