Difficulty: Medium

Average Score: 50%

Which of the following actions should a medical assistant take before transferring a patient to an examination table from a wheelchair?

Rationale

Unlock the wheels on the wheelchair.

Before transferring a patient from a wheelchair to an examination table, it is essential to unlock the wheelchair's wheels to ensure stability and prevent any unintended movement during the transfer. This step is critical for maintaining patient safety and facilitating a smooth transfer process.

A (Position the wheelchair at a 90° angle at the end of the table.) YOUR ANSWER

While positioning the wheelchair correctly is important for a successful transfer, simply positioning it at a 90° angle does not address the need to secure the wheelchair beforehand. Unlocking the wheels must be done first to avoid the risk of the chair rolling away during the transfer.

B (Raise the table to waist height.) YOUR ANSWER

Adjusting the examination table to the appropriate height is beneficial for the comfort and safety of both the patient and the medical assistant. However, this action should occur after ensuring the wheelchair is secure. Prioritizing the unlocking of the wheelchair is crucial to prevent accidents.

C (Stand in anatomical position behind the patient.) YOUR ANSWER

Standing in anatomical position behind the patient can help the medical assistant maintain a good stance for lifting. Nonetheless, it is more important to ensure the wheelchair is locked and stable before positioning oneself for a transfer. This choice does not address the immediate safety concerns related to the wheelchair's movement.

Conclusion

Unlocking the wheels on the wheelchair is the first and most crucial step a medical assistant should take before transferring a patient to an examination table. Ensuring the wheelchair is stable eliminates the risk of movement during the transfer, promoting a safe environment for both the patient and the healthcare provider. Other actions, such as positioning the wheelchair and adjusting the table height, are secondary and should follow after ensuring the initial safety measures are in place.

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