Assisting a client to transfer into the wheelchair
1, Make sure that both brakes are ‘on’ and the front casters are swiveled forward.
2, Fold-up both footplates and swing them to the sides and out of the way.
3, If possible, get another person to hold the handles of the wheelchair so that it will not move.
If this is not possible, then stand behind the chair and hold the handles yourself.
4, Ask the client to stand then, with both hands on the front of the armrests, get them to lower themself onto the seat.
5, Swing the footrests to the front and fold down the footplates.
If required, assist the client in placing their feet on the footplates, with their heels well back.
6, Ensure that the client’s elbows are not sticking outside the wheelchair when going through doorways.
Also, ensure that their hands are on their laps and not hanging outside the chair where they can catch in the spokes.
Assisting a client in transferring out of a wheelchair
1, Back the wheelchair so that the front casters swivel forwards.
2, Make sure that both the brakes are on.
3, Fold-up both footplates and swing them to the sides, out of the way.
4, If possible, get another person to hold the handles of the wheelchair so that it will not move.
If this is not possible, then stand behind the chair and hold the handles yourself.
5, Ask the client to move forwards on the seat.
6, Ask the client to place both feet firmly on the ground, slightly apart and with one foot further back.
7, Ask the client to place both hands on the front of the armrests, then get them to lean forwards with their head and shoulders over their knees to give balance.
From this position, they should be able to push themselves to stand.
Always encourage the client to take their time with each step of the procedure.
Assisting a client in transferring sideways from a wheelchair to another form of seating
1, Place the wheelchair alongside, and at 45掳, to the chair/toilet/bed/car they wish to transfer to.
2, If possible, back the wheelchair up slightly so that the front casters swivel forwards.
3, Ensure that both the brakes are on.
4, Fold-up both footplates and swing them to the sides out of the way.
5, Remove the armrest on the side to which the client is transferring.
6, If possible, get another person to hold the handles of the wheelchair so that it will not move.
If this is not possible, then stand behind the chair and hold the handles yourself.
7, Ask the client to place one hand on the remaining armrest and the other palm down on a stable area of the surface they are transferring to.
8, Ask the client to move forwards on the seat.
9, Ask the client to lean slightly forwards, push up and slide their bottom across to the other surface.
