When using an electric lift to transfer a patient, what is the priority nursing action?

The priority nursing action when using an electric lift to transfer a patient is to make sure the client is correctly positioned in the lift. Proper positioning is essential for the safety and comfort of the patient during the transfer process. If the patient is not positioned correctly, there is a risk of injury, both to the patient and the staff involved in the transfer. Correct positioning helps to distribute the weight evenly and ensures that the patient is secure in the lift, which can prevent falls or other complications during the transfer.

While it is certainly important to call for assistance, ensure the stretcher is locked, and slowly lift the client off the bed, these actions are secondary to ensuring the patient’s correct positioning. If the patient is not secure and properly aligned in the lift, the transfer could become hazardous, regardless of how many staff members are assisting or whether the stretcher is locked. Therefore, prioritizing proper positioning directly affects the overall safety and efficacy of the transfer.