Transfers

The order for restoring confidence in mobility for increasing activity demands starts with the most basic which is bed mobility. As you follow up the mobility skills hierarchy, the next are mat transfer, wheelchair transfer, bed transfer, functional ambulation of activities of daily living, toilet and tub transfer, car transfer, functional ambulation for community mobility and the highest on the hierarchy is community mobility and driving. When I look at this hierarchy, the order makes sense. Especially starting with the most basic skill in preparation for transfers, bed mobility. Bed mobility is being able to move your body in bed to several positions including supine, prone, side-lying and sitting. Having the skill of bed mobility will allow the client to participate in activities of daily living and also allow the client to move to provide pressure relief. Bed mobility includes bridging, scooting and rolling. Doing this will help the client prepare for transfers, and reposition in bed. Most of what I observed before OT school was in hand therapy and pediatric clinics so I have not been able to see a bed transfer yet. However, from what I have learned in Biomechanics, I agree with this approach. When you look at the hierarchy of mobility skills, it starts with the most basic skill and gradually becomes more complex. I look forward to learning more about mobility skills in our labs and simulations.