Chapter 10 – Transfers and Ambulation

Chapter 10, "Transfers and Ambulation," uses the principles of body mechanics (explained in Chapter 4) to show you how to assist your loved one with standing, walking, positioning and transfers without causing injury to yourself or to her. This chapter includes the following procedures for lifting, holding, and transferring a person:

• Assisting a person to a dangling position
• Helping someone sit up using the arm lock
• Helping someone stand up
• Using a transfer belt to assist with ambulation
• Assisting with walking for someone who uses a cane, walker, or crutches
• Helping someone move from a bed to a chair
• Helping someone transfer using a slide board
• Transferring someone using a mechanical lift
• Turning someone in bed
• Moving someone up in bed
• Logrolling a person

This chapter also includes a description of some adaptive devices commonly used for ambulation, including straight canes, quad canes, walkers and crutches, as well as guidelines for safe wheelchair use. The five basic body positions are described along with repositioning guidelines for a bed-bound person. Devices for making your loved one more comfortable in bed are suggested, including backrests, footboards, and bed cradles. This chapter shows you how these devices are used and how some of them can be made from materials in the home.