Title: Identify principles and precautions related to lifting and transferring clients.
Course: Physical/Occupational Therapy I (14060-I) > Section: Lifting and Transferring Patients

Identification should include the importance of base of support, pivot vs. step-to, placement of wheelchair, use of gait belt, and precautions such as the following:

- Plan the lift and/or transfer.
- Assess the environment (e.g., lines, leads).
- Gather equipment and assistance.
- Use good body mechanics.
- Know one's own limitations
- Know OSHA regulations regarding mechanical lift.

Process/Skill Questions:

- Why is it important to assess the environment prior to lifting a client?
- How might equipment be useful in lifting or transferring clients?
- What are the implications of not taking precautions when transferring a client?
- What OSHA restrictions are related to the transfer of clients?