Transfer Training Tips - January 2021

The Do’s and Do Not’s of Transfers

✔️Do Be Prepared

• Be knowledgeable of the amount/type of assistance required.

• Be sure the child is wearing proper shoes, including AFOs if applicable.

• Stabilize or lock all surfaces, including but not limited, to wheelchairs and beds.

• Level heights of surfaces as much as possible.

• Remove wheelchair footrests, leg rests, arm rests, or any components that may be in the way (if applicable).

• Make sure the path is clear.

• Be aware of any objects that could potentially cause trauma to the child’s skin.

• Be knowledgeable of all the positioning straps on a wheelchair - the lap belt should always be the last component removed prior to a transfer and the first thing put back on when a wheelchair transfer is complete.

✔️Do Work Together

• Tell the child what you are going to do as simply and clearly as possible.

• Tell the child what they must do.

• Allow the child to perform as much of the activity as possible.

• When two caregivers assist a child, count, or use a signal to move simultaneously.

• Be consistent and assist the child in the same manner every time.

✔️Do Use Proper Body Mechanics - Refer to body mechanics handout.

• Space feet about shoulder’s width apart and/or place one foot slightly ahead of the other.

• Bend at your hips and knee

• Keep the object being lifted close to your body.

❌Do NOT try to lift too much - If the child weighs over 35 lbs (OSHA guidelines) consider having another adult assist you with the transfer or using a mechanical lift.

❌Do NOT allow the child to hold onto your back or neck for assistance.

❌Do NOT leave the child unattended on a surface.