FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are transfer boards used for?
Transfer boards are valuable mobility aids used to assist people in moving from one seated surface to another, such as a wheelchair to a bed. Acting as a bridge to the other surface, a product like the SafetySure Transfer Board allows you to move in small increments instead of one big motion. As a result, you can freely transfer yourself to wheelchairs and beds without the constant support of a caregiver. This function is essential because some wheelchair users do transfers as often as 14 times daily. Since transfers are among the most challenging wheelchair maneuvers, transfer boards are one of the most helpful wheelchair accessories.
What is the safest way to use a transfer disc?
A mobility aid like the SafetySure Transfer Pivot Disk rotates like a Lazy Susan to easily transfer a person between sitting platforms. To ensure a safe transfer, place the transfer disc on the floor with the label side down. Then, position the patient's feet completely on the transfer disk with the handle of the disc facing the patient. When both of you are ready, turn the disc while you use one foot to control the speed of the transfer.
Some patients may be extremely impaired and lack the upper body strength to participate in the transfer. In these cases, you should consider using a transfer belt with the transfer disk.
What types of transfer boards and patient assists are available for in-home or clinical use?
There are various transfer boards to accommodate a patient's and helper's personal preferences and needs. Besides the conventional rectangular board, there are boards with unique angles for easier transfers, integrated handles for easy portability, reinforced construction for heavier patients, folded edges to prevent snagging clothes, and chamfered edges for less resistance. Also, there are patented boards like the Beasy Transfer Board Easy Patient Transfer System with a swivel seat and a frictionless, lateral slide that cancels shear forces. Some boards, like the Maddak Sliding Rotating Bathroom Transfer Bench, assist commode transfers only.
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