QC
November 27, 2012 | Quebec
Techniques That Protect Both Patients and Patient Service Associates
Helping someone move safely is part of a Patient Service Associate or Orderly's day-to-day responsibilities. Whether helping someone stand up, change position, transfer from a bed to a wheelchair, or move around a healthcare facility, every movement needs to be performed safely.
Safe transfer techniques are not only intended to help prevent injuries to the people receiving assistance. They also help protect Patient Service Associates, who regularly perform physically demanding tasks.
These techniques are addressed in CDI College's Support for Assistive Services in Health and Social Services Institutions – 5905 DVS program, where students develop the skills needed to assist people safely while applying recognized practices used throughout the healthcare system.
Techniques Adapted to Each Situation
Not everyone receiving assistance has the same physical abilities.
Some people may be able to perform part of a movement independently, while others require more assistance.
Before helping someone move, Patient Service Associates assess the situation to determine the most appropriate technique. This approach encourages the person's participation while helping reduce the risks associated with the movement.
Each transfer or movement can therefore be adapted to the person's abilities and needs.
Helping Prevent Injuries
Moving or transferring someone without using appropriate techniques can increase the risk of injury for both the person receiving assistance and the staff member providing it.
Applying safe transfer techniques helps reduce these risks and contributes to a safer environment for everyone.
It can also make transfers and movements more comfortable while respecting each person's abilities.
👉 Learn more: Why Are Assistive Devices Important in Care and Assistance?
Supporting Independence
Safe transfer techniques are about more than simply moving someone from one place to another.
They can also encourage people to participate in the movement whenever they are able.
This approach helps maintain existing abilities, builds confidence, and supports independence for as long as possible.
Transfers can therefore be an opportunity to encourage people to use their abilities rather than doing everything for them unnecessarily.
👉 Learn more: How Do Patient Service Associates Help Maintain Independence?
An Essential Skill Across Different Care Settings
Safe transfer techniques are used in many different healthcare environments.
Whether Patient Service Associates work in hospitals, long-term care, people's homes, or other settings within the health and social services network, these techniques can be part of their daily work.
The ability to assist people with movement safely is therefore important across a variety of care settings.
Hands-On Training for Safe Transfers
CDI College's Support for Assistive Services in Health and Social Services Institutions – 5905 DVS program places an important emphasis on learning safe transfer techniques.
Through hands-on labs, practical scenarios, and practicums, students develop the skills needed to assist confidently in a variety of situations.
They also learn to use appropriate equipment and adapt their approach to the abilities of the people they support.
A Skill Used Throughout Your Career
Safe transfer techniques are a fundamental skill for Patient Service Associates.
By applying them correctly, Patient Service Associates help protect the people they support, reduce risks to their own health and safety, and provide quality assistance.
These techniques can remain important throughout a graduate's career and are one of the foundations of safe professional practice.
Explore Further
👉 Why Patient Service Associates Are in High Demand
👉 How Can Patient Service Associates Help Prevent Falls?
👉 Why Do Patient Service Associates Need to Protect Their Own Health at Work?
