When using a slide sheet for bed-to-chair transfers, what are two primary safety goals?

• A. Reduce friction and keep the patient aligned with the midline to prevent twisting.
• B. Increase friction and rotate the patient frequently.
• C. Move the patient without aligning to midline.
• D. Use a sheet to drag the patient sideways.

Answer: (A)

Two safety goals when using a slide sheet for bed-to-chair transfers are to minimize friction and keep the patient aligned with the midline. Using a slide sheet lowers friction between the patient and surfaces, which reduces shear forces on the skin and makes the transfer smoother for both patient and caregiver. Keeping the patient along the midline prevents twisting of the spine, hips, and shoulders during the move, reducing the risk of injuries from rotational forces. Practices that increase friction, rotate the patient, or drag them sideways would raise the risk of skin damage, twisting injuries, or loss of balance. So the combination of reducing friction and maintaining midline alignment best supports a safe transfer.