Transfer—Wheelchair to Toilet
If your loved one will use a wheelchair, you need to know about transfers. For safety’s sake, learn how to help your loved one in and out of the wheelchair. One basic method is shown here.

|

|
1
|
2
|
1 Stand the patient up:
2 Move onto the toilet:
-
Keep the person’s weaker knee between your legs.
-
Pivot the person around in front of the toilet. Always transfer toward the person’s stronger side.
-
Gently sit the patient down onto the toilet.
-
Help the patient adjust his or her clothing.
-
Never pull on the person’s weaker arm or lift the person by the armpits.
Lifting a patient can be hard on your back. To reduce the risk of a back injury, remember to do the following:
-
Organize the steps in your head before you move.
-
Keep the patient close to you.
-
Keep your knees bent and your back straight.
-
Consider using a gait belt.
-
Get help when you need it.
© 2000-2021 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.