Before transferring a resident, what is a necessary preparatory step?

Ensuring the bed is at a safe level is a crucial preparatory step before transferring a resident. The primary reason for this action is to minimize the risk of falls and injury during the transfer process. By adjusting the bed height to an appropriate level, caregivers can help create a safer environment that aligns vertically with the height of the wheelchair or any other surface the resident is being transferred to. This adjustment also helps facilitate easier lifting and positioning for both the resident and the caregiver, promoting a smoother transfer experience.

While ensuring privacy, asking about the resident's day, and consulting with the nurse are all important considerations in care, they do not directly impact the immediate safety and physical requirements associated with the transfer process itself in the same way that adjusting the bed height does. Safety measures take precedence during transfers to ensure the well-being of the resident.