When moving a patient to the bed, what is the recommended approach?

The recommended approach for moving a patient to the bed involves using two nurses to facilitate the transfer. This method is ideal as it provides better support and stability for the patient and helps to distribute the workload more evenly between the nurses. By coordinating their efforts, the nurses can effectively manage the patient’s body weight and minimize the potential for strain or injury for both the patient and the caregivers.

Using two nurses also allows for more control over the transfer, which reduces the risk of slipping or dropping the patient. Additionally, this team approach also ensures that the patient feels secure and cared for during the move, which can help to alleviate anxiety and discomfort.

In contrast, relying on a single nurse to pull or move the patient can increase the risk of injury and may lead to discomfort for the patient. Quick movements to minimize discomfort may not take into account the patient’s safety or the physical demands on the caregivers, and using a mechanical lift, while helpful and safe in many situations, is not always applicable depending on the circumstances and available equipment.