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Positioning and Safe Transfer Techniques for Bedridden Patients
How to turn, sit up and transfer a patient from bed to chair safely, protecting both the patient and the caregiver, with helpful equipment.
Contents
Turning, sitting up and moving a bedridden patient to a wheelchair are tasks repeated many times a day. Poor technique can cause shoulder dislocation, skin tears and falls for the patient and back injuries for the caregiver.
Body mechanics
- Feet shoulder-width apart for a stable base.
- Bend your knees, not your back.
- Keep the patient close to your body.
- Turn with your feet, not your torso.
- Raise the bed to waist height when possible.
- Explain each step and let the patient help as much as they can.
| Position | How | Caution |
|---|---|---|
| On the back | Thin pillow under head, light support under knees | Float the heels |
| Side-lying (30°) | Pillow behind the back and between the legs | Avoid a full side position |
| Semi-sitting (Fowler) | Head of bed 30–45° | Good for eating and breathing; watch for sliding |
| On the stomach | Only on professional advice | Monitor breathing |
Turning to the side
- Lay the bed flat and stand on the side the patient will turn towards.
- Place the far arm across the chest and bend the far knee.
- Put one hand on the shoulder, one on the hip.
- Roll the patient towards you slowly.
- Support the back and place a pillow between the legs.
Moving up the bed
Use a slide sheet with two people; never pull by the arms.
Sitting on the edge of the bed
Turn the patient to the side, lower the legs over the edge, lift the trunk supporting shoulder and hip, and let them sit for a few minutes to check for dizziness.
Bed to wheelchair
- Place the chair at 30–45° on the patient's stronger side.
- Lock the brakes and lift the footrests.
- Feet flat on the floor; block the patient's knees with yours; use a transfer belt.
- Stand together on "three" and pivot with your feet.
Never let the patient pull on your neck; a transfer belt is safer.
Helpful equipment: transfer belt, slide sheet or board, mobile hoist and an adjustable hospital bed.
Our physiotherapists and carers teach these techniques in your own home across Yalova, with training visits in Bursa, Istanbul and Kocaeli–Gebze.
