Patient Transfer Slide Sheet SOP | Field Manual for Lateral Transfers

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Patient Transfer Slide Sheet SOP | Field Manual for Lateral Transfers

Category: Manual Stretchers & Gurneys

Difficulty Level: Tier 3: Field Competency Required

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Written by: Valerie Ellis Lavin

Quick Overview

The Kemp USA Patient Transfer Slide Sheet is a two-component lateral transfer device used by EMS, hospital, long-term care, and mortuary personnel to move non-ambulatory patients between surfaces with minimal force and reduced risk of musculoskeletal injury to operators.

The system consists of two components working in tandem: a semi-rigid poly plastic board measuring 67 inches by 19 inches by 0.75 inches, and a continuous-loop woven fabric rolling sheet that fits over the board. The board creates a load-bearing bridge across gaps up to 6 inches, preventing the patient from sagging during transfer. The fabric cover acts as a conveyor belt, rolling around the static board as the patient moves and virtually eliminating friction. This mechanism allows operators to transfer patients of significant weight using minimal pulling force, converting a high-strain lift into a controlled, low-resistance slide.

Proper deployment requires a minimum of two trained operators, one on the pulling side at the destination surface and one on the pushing side at the origin surface. The procedure follows four sequential phases: preparation, device placement, transfer execution, and device removal with patient securing. All movements are coordinated through clear, audible commands to ensure a single, smooth transfer action. Jerky or uncoordinated movement compromises patient safety and operator control.

The device is not a spinal immobilization tool, backboard, or primary transport device, and must never be used as one. After every use, the board and fabric cover must be separated, decontaminated with an approved hospital-grade disinfectant, thoroughly dried, and inspected for cracks, stress fractures, or fabric fraying before being returned to a ready state.

Field Application Steps

1. SURFACE POSITIONING: Bring the ambulance cot alongside the destination bed and align both surfaces so the patient's torso will be centered on the transfer device during the slide.

2. HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT: Adjust the destination surface to sit slightly lower than the origin surface to create a gentle downward slope. If adjustment is not possible, match heights as closely as the equipment allows.

3. SECURE BOTH SURFACES: Engage the brakes on both the cot and the bed. Confirm neither surface will shift during the transfer before proceeding.

4. BRIEF THE PATIENT: If the patient is conscious, explain the procedure, describe what they will feel, and instruct them how to assist, such as crossing their arms over their chest to keep limbs clear of the transfer path.

5. ESTABLISH TEAM POSITIONS: Position a minimum of one operator on the pulling side at the destination bed and one operator on the pushing side at the origin cot.

6. LOG-ROLL AND INSERT THE DEVICE: Using a draw sheet, gently log-roll the patient away from the destination surface onto their side. The pushing-side operator maintains patient stability while the pulling-side operator places the assembled slide sheet, board with fabric cover, against the patient's back, centered under the shoulders and hips.

7. RETURN PATIENT TO SUPINE: Gently roll the patient back onto the device. Confirm the patient is lying supine with at least half of the slide sheet positioned underneath them before proceeding.

8. ACQUIRE GRIP: The pulling-side operator takes a firm grip on the patient's draw sheet. Do not grip the patient's limbs or clothing at any point during the transfer.

9. ISSUE COORDINATED COMMANDS: The lead operator issues a clear preparatory command such as "Prepare to slide on my count," followed by the execution command "One, two, three, SLIDE."

10. EXECUTE THE SLIDE: On command, the pulling operator pulls the draw sheet in a smooth, continuous motion while the pushing operator provides a gentle, guiding push at the patient's shoulder and hip to initiate momentum. Continue until the patient is fully and securely on the destination surface.

11. REMOVE THE DEVICE: Log-roll the patient on the destination bed away from the origin surface. The operator on the origin side slides the device out from underneath the patient.

12. SECURE THE PATIENT: Center the patient on the bed, confirm comfort and positioning, raise bed rails per protocol, and remove the device from service for full decontamination before returning it to a ready state.

Equip Yourself: Kemp USA Patient Transfer Slide Sheet – Rigid Transfer Board & Rolling Cover

Ensure you have the right gear before an emergency strikes.

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER & SAFETY WARNING:
The information provided in this Luminary Global Field Manual is strictly for educational and informational purposes. It is not a substitute for formal medical, tactical, or professional training. In the event of a medical emergency, immediately seek professional help or contact emergency services. Luminary Global assumes no liability for the misuse of equipment, improper application of techniques, or any injuries/damages resulting from the use of these guidelines. Always rely on your official agency training, local laws, and established protocols during a crisis.