Transfers

    Mobility is the ability to get from position to another and a person can face many challenges if they lose that ability to move. The order for restoring confidence in mobility is listed in a hierarchy and is listed from least mobile (1) to most mobile (9):


1. Bed mobility

2. Mat Transfer

3. Wheelchair transfer

4. Bed transfer

5. Functional ambulation for ADL

6. Toilet and Tub transfer

7. Car transfer

8. Functional Ambulation for community mobility

9. Community mobility and driving


    This order is what I expected and what I have seen while volunteering and shadowing multiple different occupational therapists in the past. This order can help increase a client's confidence while also increasing strength and mobility. By starting with the basics, such as getting out of bed and in a wheelchair, clients can work their way up to eventually getting the toilet and tub as well as the car. As they master each level, they will gain the confidence to move on to the next. 

    I have observed this in the past and also noticed that there are so many different clients working on different types of mobility. While one patient can transfer to a car and drive, others struggle working on getting into a wheelchair and have to focus on that type of mobility. I agree with the approach because it is important for the safety of both the client and practitioners while also allowing the client to regain mobility in specific stages. 

    While working in labs and simulation experiences, I have had the opportunity to be in the client's position and know how they might feel while being transferred. After being pushed in the wheelchair and going up and down the curbs, I realized there is so much more comfort going up a curb face forward and going down a curb backwards. As a practitioner, it is important to use your entire body for stability and safety of both yourself and the client. Also working on the wheelchair and bed transfers, I realized that "slow and steady wins the race". By taking the transfer little steps at a time, both the practitioner and client are able to feel safe and secure. 

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