When transferring a client weighing 136 kg (300 lb), which device should the nurse use to ensure safety?

The most appropriate device to use when transferring a client weighing 136 kg (300 lb) is an air-assisted transfer device. This equipment is specifically designed to assist in moving patients with limited mobility safely and easily. Air-assisted transfer devices utilize air to lift and support the patient, making it easier for one or more caregivers to transfer the client with minimal physical strain. This is particularly important when dealing with heavier individuals, as it reduces the risk of injury to both the client and the healthcare staff.

Using an air-assisted transfer device allows for smoother and more controlled movements, which is essential in preventing falls or accidents during the transfer process. The device can help to manage the weight distribution effectively and often comes equipped with safety features that ensure the client remains secure throughout the transfer.

While slide boards can also facilitate transfers, they typically require more physical effort from the caregivers and may not provide the same level of support as an air-assisted device for heavier individuals. Wheelchairs are not intended for transferring patients but for mobility, and a gait belt, while useful for providing support during ambulation, may not be adequate when transferring a patient of this size safely. Therefore, the air-assisted transfer device is the best option to ensure both the client's safety and the caregivers' safety during the