BARIATRIC PATIENTS: TRANSFER -- AN OVERVIEW

Course overview

Transfer of a bariatric patient (i.e., commonly defined as a morbidly obese individual, one whose body mass index [BMI] is > 40 kg/m2 and who weighs > 350 lb) consists of moving or aiding movement of the patient from one surface to another (e.g., bed to chair, wheelchair, or toilet/commode or from a bed to a stretcher) in a comfortable, safe, and dignified manner. Depending on the patient’s level of mobility, multiple staff members can be required to participate in the transfer of a bariatric patient—typically, one staff member is necessary for each 50 lb to be moved. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of how to safely transfer the bariatric patient. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.