Colorado CNA Practice Exam

A nursing care plan states "Transfer with mechanical lift," but the client is very agitated. What should the nurse aide do?

1. Get assistance to move the client

2. Transfer the client alone

3. Wait until the client is calm

4. Ask another nurse aide to transfer the client

The correct answer is: Get assistance to move the client

The correct answer is to get assistance to move the client because safety is the top priority when transferring a client, especially one who is agitated. Using a mechanical lift often requires at least one more person to ensure that the transfer is performed safely and effectively. Agitation can lead to unpredictable movements from the client, increasing the risk of injury to both the client and the nurse aide if they attempt to transfer the client alone. When dealing with an agitated client, having additional help not only promotes safety but can also provide the needed support to calm the client during the transfer. The presence of another individual can help reassure the client and create a more controlled environment for the transfer process. It's important to adhere to best practices in patient care by maintaining a focus on safety and teamwork. While waiting for the client to calm down may seem like a reasonable option, it can lead to unnecessary delays in care and may not be feasible if the transfer is necessary for the client's well-being. Alone transfers pose significant risks, and relying solely on one aide to handle an agitated client while using a mechanical lift could lead to accidents. Hence, the best course of action is to get assistance to ensure the safety of everyone involved.