Transferring Using a Transfer (Sliding) Board

Transferring means moving between two surfaces such as from a bed and to a wheelchair. Safe transfers help prevent falls and injury. The type of transfer you will use depends on your overall health and strength. This sheet will describe one type of transfer: using a transfer board.

Using a transfer board

A transfer board is also known as a sliding board. It is typically a flat, stiff board made of wood or plastic. It’s used to bridge two surfaces. Using a transfer board lets you move between surfaces without using your legs. It lets you move using several small movements instead of one big motion. And it needs less upper body strength than other types of transfers.

At first, you’ll need help from caregivers to use a transfer board. And you will need to wear a gait belt or transfer belt. This is a special belt that helps a caregiver support you. It's also used for safety reasons. Later, you may be able to use the transfer board by yourself.

Tips for a successful transfer

These tips can help you do transfers using transfer boards more safely and easily:

• Keep the correct equipment within easy reach. Use a gait or transfer belt during transfers. Never substitute another object if the transfer board is not nearby.

• Move slowly and carefully. Pay close attention to your movements and body position as you transfer across the board.

• Try to transfer between surfaces of similar height. Or transfer to a slightly lower surface. This makes the transfer easier.

• Protect your skin. This means keeping your skin from getting pinched or rubbed during the transfer. For instance, don’t drag your buttocks on the board. And always wear clothing or use a transfer sheet. This is a fabric sheet that helps ease movement during transfers.

• Keep yourself in the correct position. Keep your feet flat on the floor throughout most types of transfers. As you move across the board, stop as needed and reposition your legs and feet. Do this one leg at a time, keeping each foot in line with the knee. To prevent stress on your wrists and hands, try making your hands into fists. Support your body weight on the flat surface between the knuckles. Never put your hands or fingers under the board during a transfer.

• Wear any orthopedic devices you have while transferring.  And wear sturdy shoes when possible.

• If you have decreased strength or sensation in your upper body, work with a caregiver to help you transfer.  As you get used to using a transfer board, you may learn to transfer without a caregiver. At this point, you may use special transfer board equipment that can help you transfer by yourself.

Moving from a bed to a wheelchair

One common transfer is from a bed to a wheelchair. Follow these steps to do this movement safely using a transfer board. You may have a caregiver or two helping you. They will be trained in providing the amount of support you need:

1. Sit on the side of the bed. Your legs should hang over the edge with your feet flat on the floor.

2. The wheelchair should be as close to the bed as possible. It should be placed at an angle to the bed as directed by your physical or occupational therapist or physiatrist.

3. The wheels of the chair should be locked. Both footrests should be moved out of the way. And the armrest nearest to you should be removed.

4. You or your caregiver should slide one end of the transfer board beneath your thigh. Point it downward to keep from pinching the skin. Leaning your upper body in the opposite direction from the board can make placing the board easier.

5. The other end of the board should be placed flat on the wheelchair seat. The board should point toward the back seat corner farthest from the bed. Also, the front edge of the board should be forward of the wheelchair’s rear wheel.

6. To shift your weight and move across the board, push up with your arms. Next, carefully move your body toward the wheelchair and lower it back onto the board. Repeat using several short movements instead of one long movement. As you transfer, lean your head and shoulders in the opposite direction of the move. For instance, to move left, lean your head and shoulders to the right as you move your buttocks to the left. 

7. Once you are settled fully on the wheelchair, the transfer board can be removed.

Moving between other surfaces

Here are tips for moving between other surfaces using a transfer board.

• Between a wheelchair and other household surfaces. The basic steps listed above can also be used to transfer to and from other surfaces in the home. These include a toilet and a couch.

• From a wheelchair into a car. The basic steps listed above can also be used for getting into a car. Or use the steps given by your physical therapist, occupational therapist, or physiatrist. The following tips can also help:

  • You may have one or two caregivers helping you transfer into a car.

  • Before starting the transfer, the car seat should be moved as far back as possible. This gives you more room to move. It also makes it easier to pull the folded wheelchair into the car.

  • If you need more headroom, the back of the car seat can be slightly reclined.

  • The window of the door you’re entering should be rolled down. This provides a surface you can grip while moving.

  • After your buttocks are positioned on the car seat, fasten your seat belt. This will give you more stability as you move your legs into the car.

  • Move your legs into the car one at a time.

  • Fold the wheelchair. If caregivers are helping you, they may load the chair into the back seat or trunk of the car.

Back safety tips for caregivers

Helping a person transfer can be hard on your back. To reduce the risk of a back injury:

• Organize the steps in your mind before you begin.

• Explain the steps of the move and ask the person when they are ready to move.

• Keep your knees bent and your back straight.

• You may use a gait belt to provide a firm hold, rather than clasping your hands behind the person’s back.

• Get help when you need it.

• Ask to practice first while a healthcare provider watches you.