Safe Transport
This should be done before every patient and equipment transport.
What is a point-of-care risk assessment (POCRA)?
Cords stretched across a hallway increase the risk of this.
What is a trip hazard?
This communication technique helps de-escalate tense situations.
What is calm, respectful verbal communication?
This should always be checked before entering or exiting an elevator with a stretcher.
What is the floor level alignment (gap or height difference)?
Before transferring from bed to stretcher, these must be locked.
What are brakes?
This body position reduces strain on your back while pushing equipment.
What is keeping a neutral spine and using your legs?
Elevators, tight hallways, and wet floors are examples of this.
What are environmental hazards?
Standing too close to an agitated patient increases this risk.
What is risk of assault or injury?
When entering an elevator, this position gives you the most control.
What is pushing forward into the elevator?
Rushing a transfer because "we're behind schedule" increases this.
What is injury risk?
This should be adjusted before moving a stretcher or bed to avoid awkward postures.
What is bed or stretcher height?
Overloaded carts increase the risk of this type of injury.
What is a musculoskeletal injury?
Early signs of agitation may include pacing, clenched fists, and raised voice.
What are warning signs of escalating behaviour?
If the elevator stops suddenly or malfunctions during transport, this is your first action.
What is call for assistance?
A patient porter is transporting a patient by stretcher when the elevator door opens.
What is exit the elevator as patient transfers have priority?
Tight corners and blind intersections require this action.
What is slowing down and announcing your approach?
This increases injury risk when pushing carts.
What is overreaching or twisting?
Keeping at least this much space between you and an agitated patient improves safety.
What is arm's-length distance (or safe personal space)?
If an elevator door begins to close on equipment, this is the safest response.
What is stop movement and use the door control button - not your body?
This acronym outlines the first steps to take during a fire emergency?
What is RACE?
R- Rescue (remove those in immediate danger)
A- Alarm (activate alarm/notify)
C- Contain (close doors)
E- Extinguish/Evacuate
This piece of equipment reduces friction during lateral transfers.
What is a slider sheet or transfer board?
Cold weather and snow tracked into entrances increases this hazard?
What is a slip risk?
You feel unsafe during transport due to aggressive behaviour.
What is stop the transport and call for assistance/ security?
You are exiting an elevator and the stretcher wheel catches in the gap, causing a sudden jolt.
What is reassess footing, stabilize the load, and reposition before continuing?
Closing doors during a Code Red helps prevent this.
What is the spread of smoke and fire?