What is the most appropriate method to move a patient from bed to a wheeled stretcher?

What is the most appropriate method to move a patient from bed to a wheeled stretcher?

• A. Log roll method
• B. Draw sheet method
• C. Transfer board technique
• D. Hand-to-hand lift

Answer: (B)

Moving a patient from a bed to a wheeled stretcher should minimize lifting and friction while keeping the patient’s spine in line if there’s a suspected injury. The draw sheet method does exactly that: a sheet is placed under the patient so you can slide them across the bed and onto the stretcher with coordinated efforts from two or more rescuers. By pulling on the sheet rather than lifting the patient, you reduce back strain for rescuers and decrease shear forces on the patient’s skin, which helps prevent injuries and discomfort. It also allows smoother transfers while maintaining alignment. Log rolling is mainly about turning or repositioning while maintaining spinal control, not the typical bed-to-stretcher slide. A transfer board can work in some scenarios, especially if there’s a gap between bed and stretcher, but it still involves more lifting and maneuvering than the simple slide provided by a draw sheet. A hand-to-hand lift relies heavily on lifting the patient, increasing risk to both patient and providers.

Moving a patient from a bed to a wheeled stretcher should minimize lifting and friction while keeping the patient’s spine in line if there’s a suspected injury. The draw sheet method does exactly that: a sheet is placed under the patient so you can slide them across the bed and onto the stretcher with coordinated efforts from two or more rescuers. By pulling on the sheet rather than lifting the patient, you reduce back strain for rescuers and decrease shear forces on the patient’s skin, which helps prevent injuries and discomfort. It also allows smoother transfers while maintaining alignment.

Log rolling is mainly about turning or repositioning while maintaining spinal control, not the typical bed-to-stretcher slide. A transfer board can work in some scenarios, especially if there’s a gap between bed and stretcher, but it still involves more lifting and maneuvering than the simple slide provided by a draw sheet. A hand-to-hand lift relies heavily on lifting the patient, increasing risk to both patient and providers.