Transfer-Bed to Wheelchair

If your loved one will use a wheelchair, you need to know about transfers. For safety's sake, learn how to help your loved one in and out of the wheelchair. One basic method is shown here.

1

Sit the patient up

• Lock the wheelchair.

• Help the patient turn over onto his or her side, facing you.

• Put an arm under the patient's neck with your hand supporting the shoulder. Put your other hand behind the knees.

• Swing legs over the edge of the bed, helping the patient to sit up.

2

Stand the patient up

• Have the patient scoot to the edge of the bed.

• Put your arms around the patient's chest and clasp your hands behind his or her back.

• Support the leg farthest from the wheelchair between your legs, lean back, shift your weight, and lift.

3

Sit the patient down

• Have the patient pivot toward the chair, as you continue to hold on. Always transfer toward the person's stronger side.

• As the patient bends toward you, bend your knees and lower the patient into the back of the chair.