What should the nurse aide do when assisting a client to transfer from the bed to the wheelchair?

When assisting a client to transfer from the bed to a wheelchair, it is crucial to promote safety and ease during the transfer process. Lowering the bed to its lowest position is beneficial because it reduces the distance the client has to move when getting out of bed, thereby minimizing the risk of falls or injury during the transfer. This adjustment also helps to align the height of the bed with that of the wheelchair, making it easier for the client to pivot into the chair.

While other aspects, such as securing the wheelchair and raising the bed to varying heights, may be important in different contexts of patient care, lowering the bed specifically addresses the immediate safety concern during the transfer process. Ensuring the wheelchair is locked is a critical step to prevent it from moving during the transfer, but it does not directly facilitate the transfer itself. Calling for additional assistance may be warranted in some scenarios, but in routine transfers with appropriate training, a nurse aide can often manage without needing extra help.