Transfer: Wheelchair to Toilet

Step 1.  Stand the person up:

• Bring the wheelchair near the toilet.

• Lock the wheelchair and remove its footrests.

• Be sure the person’s feet are under their body.

• Grasp the back of their belt or pants and lift.

Step 2.  Move them onto the toilet:

• Tell the person what you are doing so that they are ready for the move.

• Keep the person’s weaker knee between your legs.

• Pivot the person around in front of the toilet. Always transfer toward the person’s stronger side.

• Gently sit them down on the toilet.

• Help them adjust their clothing.

• Never pull on the person’s weaker arm or lift them by the armpits.

Important safety tips

Lifting a person can be hard on your back. To reduce the risk of a back injury, remember to do the following:

• Organize the steps in your head before you start.

• Explain the steps of the move and ask the person to tell you when they are ready to transfer.

• Keep the person close to you.

• Keep your knees bent and your back straight.

• Use a transfer belt to provide a firm hold, rather than clasping your hands behind the person’s back.

• Get help when you need it.

• Ask to practice with supervision.