What is the first safety step when assisting a resident to the bathroom or commode?

What is the first safety step when assisting a resident to the bathroom or commode?

• A. Lock bed wheels
• B. Put on gloves
• C. Put on non-skid shoes with laces tied
• D. Ask resident to stand

Answer: (A)

Locking the bed wheels first stops any unintended movement of the surface the resident is leaving, which is the immediate risk during a bathroom transfer. If the bed or chair rolls while you’re helping, the resident could fall and be injured, so securing the equipment takes priority before moving them. Once the wheels are locked, you can safely proceed with other precautions, such as ensuring non-slip footwear and proper attire, and using gloves when needed for protection. Asking the resident to stand before stabilizing the surface is unsafe, because the bed or chair could shift and throw them off balance.

Locking the bed wheels first stops any unintended movement of the surface the resident is leaving, which is the immediate risk during a bathroom transfer. If the bed or chair rolls while you’re helping, the resident could fall and be injured, so securing the equipment takes priority before moving them. Once the wheels are locked, you can safely proceed with other precautions, such as ensuring non-slip footwear and proper attire, and using gloves when needed for protection. Asking the resident to stand before stabilizing the surface is unsafe, because the bed or chair could shift and throw them off balance.