Assist with patient transfer and positioning.

Assisting with patient transfer and positioning should include

• making sure the bed or stretcher is locked
• using a variety of transfer/positioning aids (e.g., rollers, sheets, lifts, stirrups, boards, padding)
• adhering to correct anatomical placement for the purpose of preventing excessive pressure on the body and possible nerve damage
• maintaining integrity of all lines (e.g., IV, Foley catheter, drains, colostomy bags) in the transfer of the patient to and from the surgical table.

Process/Skill Questions:

• How can aids such as rollers, sheets, lifts, stirrups, boards, and padding help the surgical technologist protect the patient during the process of transferring and positioning?
• How can the correct anatomical placement of the patient during transfer and positioning help prevent physical problems for the patient?
• What types of surgery may require a special positioning of the patient on the operating table? Why is this positioning necessary?
• How can a surgical technologist protect himself/herself while transferring and positioning a patient?
• What basic safety measures should be observed prior to transferring a patient?