Cart Transfers

Patient Positioning Considerations

Talk with the patient and explain what you are going to do. Let the patient assist as much as possible. Check with patient before any move is attempted. Provide positioning sponges to help the patient maintain correct positioning. Work as a transfer team!

 

Cart Transfers

Make sure cart wheels are locked and immovable. Allow patient to assist with move based on the patient's ability and condition. Cart transfers usually require three people. Use transfer aids. For the actual lateral transfer, both transfer surfaces must be side to side, as close as possible and at the same height.

Three methods with transfer aids:

1. Draw sheet

2. Slider board

3. Sliding mat

 

Patient Transfer with Draw Sheet

Begin by rolling up the draw sheet on both sides of the patient. The person directing the transfer supports the patient's head and upper body from the far side of the radiographic table. An assistant supports the patient's pelvic girdle from the cart side. A second assistant supports the patient's legs from the tableside. The patient's arms can be crossed over the chest to avoid injury or getting in the way.

 

Safety Side Rails

Safety side rails are required to be in up and locked position:

1. For patients who are impaired or unconscious.

2. When patients are left unattended on a stretcher.