Prevent falls during patient transport by using proper equipment and securing the patient

Stay Safe on the Move: The Simple Rule for Patient Transport

Picture a bustling hallway, wheels squeaking softly, nurses and aides coordinating like a well-oiled team. In that moment, one small lapse can change a routine transport into a risky situation. Falls during patient transport don’t always scream for help; they sneak in quietly, especially when we’re rushing or juggling multiple tasks. The heart of prevention is straightforward: use proper equipment and secure the patient. That’s the core takeaway you’ll hear in ATI Skills Modules 3.0’s Safety Video resources, and it’s the mindset that keeps people out of harm’s way.

Here’s the thing: safety isn’t a feeling—it’s a series of deliberate choices. Think of it like packing a fragile item for a move. You wouldn’t put it in a plain box with nothing guarding it, would you? You’d pick the right container, add padding, and strap it down so nothing shifts during transit. The same logic applies to moving a patient from bed to chair, or from one part of the hospital to another. Proper equipment plus securing the patient creates a stable, predictable ride—one that minimizes surprises and reduces the risk of a fall.

Why this approach matters

Let me explain why the combination of the right tools and careful restraint makes such a big difference. Equipment designed for transport—stretchers, wheelchairs, transfer boards, and gait belts—provides a stable base, predictable handling, and clear points of control for staff. When you couple that with safety straps or belts, you’re giving the patient a secure, controlled experience. It’s not about treating patients like glass; it’s about recognizing that even a small misstep can lead to injuries, especially for those who are disoriented, confused, or have limited mobility.

The right gear, the right restraint, every time

Before transport begins, choose the right device. A standard stretcher might be perfect for a head-to-toe transfer, while a wheelchair is often best for shorter trips. If a patient is mobile enough to walk a short distance with assistance, a transfer belt can provide a stable grip for the caregiver and the patient—without compromising comfort.

Next, inspect the equipment as part of the routine. Check that all wheels are in good condition, that brakes or wheel locks function, and that there aren’t any loose parts you’ll regret later. If you spot damage, don’t improvise—switch to a safe alternative and tag the device out for maintenance. It’s not a heroic move to choose safety over speed; it’s exactly what keeps everyone in one piece.

Securing the patient is more than a buckle-click moment

Once the transport device is chosen, secure the patient with the appropriate restraints. Side rails, belts, and safety straps aren’t decorations; they’re essential. For patients with limited mobility or those who may be disoriented, securing them reduces the chance of sudden movement, which is a common trigger for falls. The goal is a calm, controlled ride where the patient remains in a safe position throughout the journey.

What “secure” looks like in real life

• Fasten safety belts or straps snugly but comfortably. You should be able to fit a fingertip between the belt and the patient’s body—comfort plus security, not tightness that cuts into skin or restricts breathing.

• Use side rails when appropriate. They act as an extra boundary that helps keep the patient from sliding, especially in the presence of bends or turns.

• Check foot positioning. Ensure feet aren’t dangling off a chair or lying on the floor of a stretcher, which can become a hazard if the patient shifts suddenly.

• Lock wheels before you move. It’s a small step with a big payoff: nothing rolls unexpectedly while you’re trying to transfer or turn a patient.

If the patient can tolerate movement, you still want to maintain communication. Just because you’re securing someone doesn’t mean you should go quiet. Narrate what you’re doing, ask for feedback, and keep the pace steady but unhurried. A calm team works better than a rushed one, and a patient who feels informed is less likely to panic, which reduces agitation-related movements.

A few quick reminders that save lives

• Don’t transport with wheels unlocked. It invites drift and wobble, increasing the risk of a slip or a collision.

• Don’t assume a patient is safe because they appear calm. Cognitive changes can mask risk. Always check the patient’s status and readiness for transport.

• Don’t skip the transfer devices if you’re short on time. The right device makes the trip safer and more efficient in the long run.

• Don’t neglect staff communication. A quick “I’ve got you” or “I’ll steady you through this turn” can be the difference between a smooth ride and a stumble.

• Don’t forget the environment. Clear the path of obstacles, keep the route well lit, and avoid tight corners or crowded corridors when possible.

Where things tend to go wrong (and how to fix them)

Rushing is the sneakiest culprit. When you’re trying to move quickly, you might skip a step or cut corners. Slow down just a notch—safety loves steady hands and clear steps. Another common pitfall is assuming a patient is secure because they’re quiet. Silence can be a sign that they’re anxious or disoriented, which is a red flag for movement without support. Finally, improvised solutions—like using makeshift belts or unsecured chairs—are dangerous. Stick to the equipment designed for the job, and use it correctly.

A practical routine you can rely on

• Before move: verify device compatibility with the patient’s size, weight, and medical condition. Check brakes, straps, and rails. Gather a second caregiver if the patient requires two-person handling.

• During move: keep a steady pace, avoid sudden stops, and maintain midline alignment to prevent tipping. Communicate clearly, especially when turning corners or navigating doors.

• After move: re-check the patient’s position, secure all restraints, and ensure the device is parked with brakes on. Leave the patient settled and comfortable before you release control.

Learning from real-world practice

Hospitals and care centers that emphasize a culture of safety tend to have fewer transport-related incidents. Training sessions, hands-on simulations, and short refreshers help staff stay sharp. It’s not about memorizing a rule; it’s about internalizing a rhythm—select the right device, secure the patient, execute the move, and confirm everything is stable. When teams practice this rhythm, the rhythm becomes instinctive.

Incorporating the right tools into daily routines

You’ll hear about different brands and models in real life—Hillrom stretchers, Stryker gurneys, or Invacare wheelchairs—but the message stays the same: align tools with patient needs, maintain meticulous checks, and secure the patient every time. The goal is simple: a smooth, safe transport where the patient feels cared for and protected. Even if you’re in a busy unit, the habit of using proper equipment plus securing the patient becomes second nature with repetition and reinforcement.

A humane, patient-centered angle

Safety isn’t a dry checklist; it’s a way to show respect for people who may be vulnerable during a moment of transition. Securing a patient isn’t about keeping them under tight control; it’s about safeguarding dignity, comfort, and autonomy as much as possible. When we talk about safety, we’re really talking about trust—trust that the team won’t cut corners, that the patient will be kept steady, and that help is there when it’s needed.

Closing thought: the simplest rule that makes the biggest difference

The move from bed to chair, the glide down a corridor, the careful ascent in an elevator—these moments add up. When you use proper equipment and secure the patient, you’re following a rule that saves lives. It’s a practical commitment that doesn’t demand heroics, just thoughtful preparation and teamwork. If you carry that mindset into every transport, you’re already building a safer care environment for your patients and a more confident, capable team for your unit.

If you’re exploring ATI Skills Modules 3.0 for safety videos, you’re not just checking fixtures or forms—you’re absorbing a way of working that puts people first. The equipment matters, yes, but the person matters more. And with that balance, every trip becomes safer, smoother, and more humane.