T4-floor to W/C transfer (S17)

AIM:

To demonstrate a floor to wheelchair transfer to a person with complete T4 paraplegia.

Rationale:

The therapist demonstrates the key components of the task to the patient

Equipment:

  • Wheelchair
  • Blocks
  • Non-slip mat

Key Points:

The sub-tasks (in order) are:

  • Positioning the legs
  • Positioning the hands
  • Lifting and rotating the body onto the wheelchair
  • Positioning the buttocks on the wheelchair
  • Moving into the upright position

Common Errors:

  • Positioning the legs – not pulling the hips and knees into enough flexion
  • Positioning the legs – not using one hand to stabilise trunk while lifting legs
  • Positioning the hands – not keeping the forearm of the top arm perpendicular to the ground (i.e., elbow pointing upwards)
  • Lifting and rotating – not moving head in opposite direction to the intended movement of the buttocks
  • Positioning the buttocks – not positioning the buttocks far enough back on the seat
  • Moving upright – unable to pull the trunk into the upright position

Progression and Variety:

  • Not applicable