It is important that caregivers understand safe handling skills and body mechanics when transferring for safety, efficiency and comfort. These transfers allow two caregivers to work collaboratively for safe transfer.
Position the chair adjacent to the table, ensuring the brakes are fully locked and all straps are off. Remove arm rests and foot rests if possible.
One caregiver is positioned behind the child, crossing the childs arms and wrapping their arms beneath the childs crossed arms.
The second caregiver is positioned at the foot of the chair, placing their hands under both the childs knees.
Both caregivers will count down from three, bending at the waist, then lifting the child either into seated at the edge of the table (if child is comfortable) or straight into supine.
The wheelchair can be moved away while one caregiver supports the child.
Ensure brakes are locked on chair, and all straps are off. Remove footrests and armrests if possible. Bring the mechanical lift in front of the chair, locking the brakes.
One caregiver will be behind the child to slide the sling in, and another child will be positioned in front of the child to assist and to ensure the child stays in place.
The caregiver at the child's legs will support the child as the caregiver at the back leans them forward, sliding the sling behind their back, then bringing the shoulder straps over the shoulders.
Tuck the sling under the buttocks and slide out between the legs, asking the supporting caregiver to pull if necessary.
Hook the sling up to the mechanical lift at the appropriate tension, adjusting if needed. Try lifting the child just a few inches at first with a caregiver at the front to ensure safety.
Place the chair an arms length away from the back of the walker. Ensure brakes are on chair and walker.
Have one caregiver on either side of the child, supporting the child as the straps are unlocked on the chair.
Each caregiver will bend at the knees, placing one hand under the childs knee closest to them, and the other hand cupping under the armpit/bicep closest to to them.
Both caregivers will count down from three, standing tall and bringing the child upright and into the walker until their torso touches the front pads.
The child can be strapped in as necessary. One caregiver can hold the child upright during this process to ensure the child acclimatizes to being upright before using the walker.
Before unlocking the brakes, ensure the child is comfortable and both feet are able to be placed flat in a tall standing position.