The home health nurse observes the nurse aide transfer a patient with hemiplegia from a sitting position on the bed to the wheelchair. Which of the following actions needs correction by the home health nurse? The aide

Explanation

• Hemiplegia, a total paralysis of one side of the body, results from injury to the brain cells in the cerebral motor cortex.

• This question asks to identify the incorrect transfer technique.

• Shoulder subluxation and pain can result from pulling the patient's paralyzed arm. The patient's unaffected arm or hand must be allowed to reach for the wheelchair's arm and to brace themselves that way. The unaffected arm should be supported, but not pulled.

• The other options are correct and indicate proper techniques that promote safety and comfort.

• Allowing the patient to lean forward shifts the center of gravity and enables the patient to rise from the bed properly. 

• Moving the patient toward the unaffected side permits the strong arm and leg to accomplish the transfer safely. Bracing the knee and foot assists in balance during the transfer.

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