Title: Transfer the patient to a stretcher.
Course: Surgical Technologist II (14056--II) > Section: Demonstrating Postoperative Procedures

Transfer of the patient to a stretcher should include

- using at least four people in the team—positioned at the head, foot, and both sides of the patient
- maintaining the integrity of drains and tubes
- securing the stretcher lock before moving the patient to the stretcher
- using aids to transfer the patient, as appropriate (e.g., rollers, sheets, lifts, stirrups, boards, padding)
- taking care to prevent shearing.

Process/Skill Questions:

- When preparing to transport a postoperative patient from the operating room, what is the process for transporting essential drains and tubes that must remain attached to the patient?
- How should a patient on a gurney be positioned when entering and exiting an elevator? Why? 
- What is the role of the anesthesia provider in the postoperative transport of a surgical patient? What is the role of the surgical technologist?