Patient Mobility & Transfers Flashcards
7 cards from real PCA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Patient Mobility & Transfers flashcards as text
A patient has a doctor's order that reads 'NWB left leg.' What does this mean for the PCA during transfers?
Answer: The patient must not put any weight on the left leg at all
NWB (Non-Weight-Bearing) means absolutely no weight is to be placed on that limb during transfers or ambulation.
When repositioning a patient up in bed using a draw sheet with a co-worker, both caregivers should:
Answer: Count to three and pull simultaneously on command
Coordinating with a count ensures both caregivers move at the same time, reducing friction, preventing shear injury, and protecting both workers.
The PRIMARY purpose of locking wheelchair brakes before a transfer is to:
Answer: Prevent the wheelchair from rolling and causing the patient to fall
Locking the brakes prevents the wheelchair from rolling away from the patient as they shift their weight during the transfer, which could cause a fall.
A PCA is using a gait belt to help a patient walk down a hallway. The correct position for the PCA is:
Answer: Walking slightly behind and to one side of the patient
Standing slightly behind and to the side allows the PCA to monitor the patient, react to stumbles, and control the gait belt without obstructing the patient's path.
Which of the following is a contraindication to using a gait belt on a patient?
Answer: The patient has a colostomy or abdominal surgery incision in the belt area
A gait belt should not be placed over wounds, surgical incisions, colostomies, or feeding tubes as it can cause pain or injury to those areas.
A patient with Parkinson's disease freezes mid-stride during ambulation. The PCA should:
Answer: Instruct the patient to try marching in place or focus on stepping over a line
For Parkinson's-related freezing, cueing techniques such as marching in place or visual cues like stepping over an imaginary line can help restart movement.
After completing a transfer, the PCA should document:
Answer: The type of transfer, level of assistance required, and any patient complaints
Accurate documentation of the transfer method, assistance level, and any patient concerns creates a legal record and informs continuity of care.