Manual of Policies and Procedures for Wade Nursing Registry

Moving Client Up in Bed When Client Can Help

1. Explain what you are going to do
2. Wash your hands
3. Provide privacy (shut door, pull curtain)
4. Raise bed to convenient working height
5. Lock wheels on bed, or push bed against wall if there are no brakes
6. Lower rail on side where you are working
7. Fold back top sheet. Lower client's head and remove pillows
8. Prop one pillow against headboard. This will protect the client's head when moving up.
9. Stand facing head of bed, feet 12 inches apart
10. Slip one arm under client's shoulders, the other under client's thighs
11. Instruct client to bend his/her knees, and firmly place feet against mattress. On a signal from you, client will push with feet and hands to assist with the move up in bed
12. Help client move toward head of bed by shifting your body weight from your back leg to your front leg
13. Several small upward moves may be used rather than one large move to reach head of bed
14. Make sure client is in good body alignment. Replace top sheets and pillows
15. Place bed in the lowest position ( side rails up if needed)
16. Wash your hands