(gentle music)
[Narrator] Sitting up in a chair
has many important benefits.
Changing positions regularly helps
to prevent pressure sores
and fluid build up in the lungs.
A change in scenery can also lift a person's spirits
and make eating or visiting more enjoyable.
As a caregiver, it's important to know
your body's abilities and limitations
so you can avoid injury when providing care to someone else.
It's also very important to know the ability
and reliability of the person you're helping.
If there are wheels in the bed,
ensure they're in the locked position.
Raise the level of the bed to slightly above chair height.
After explaining what you're going to do,
raise the head of the bed as far as it'll go.
Both you and the patient should be wearing
comfortable, non-slip footwear.
Move the wheelchair into position,
as close to the bed as possible.
Make sure that the path to the chair is clear,
the brakes are on, the foot pedals have been removed,
and any other equipment you need is readily available.
Move the person's legs over the side of the bed.
Then help them sit at the edge of the bed
with both feet planted on the floor.
Be sure to move slowly
and give the person time to adjust
to the position changes.
Moving too quickly can cause the person
to feel dizzy or lightheaded.
Place the person's hands on the edge
of the bed or armrest of the chair,
instructing them to push up when you count to three.
Facing the person, plant your feet shoulder-width apart
with one foot on either side of the person's legs.
Standing as close as you can,
bend your knees and lean towards them,
placing your arms under their arms
and around their back.
On the count of three, stand upright with the person
using your legs, not your back.
Wait a few seconds until any dizziness passes.
Then turn together,
moving your feet to pivot so you don't damage your knees.
Shuffle backwards until the patient can feel the chair.
Encourage the person to place their hands
on the arms of the chair.
Then the two of you will sit together
until a patient is in the chair.
Sitting can take quite a bit of energy
for people who are feeling weak.
It's important to notice the signs that a person
may be getting tired or feeling uncomfortable
so that they can be helped back to bed.
Remember, it's easier and safer
to help a person back to bed
when they still have some strength
than when they feel exhausted.
The technique involved in returning a patient to bed
is the exact reverse of what's just been demonstrated.
If a person can't stand on their own,
it's not safe to move them using this technique.
In such cases, two people must assist
or a mechanical lift is used.
In this case, talk to your home care office
about the equipment options available.
These may include transfer or gate belts,
assistive devices such as trapeze bars,
and floor-to-ceiling poles,
and mechanical lift devices.
(gentle music)