Colorado CNA Practice Exam

When transporting a client in a wheelchair, what is the safest way to move through a doorway?

1. Push the wheelchair forward

2. Pull the wheelchair backward

3. Tip the wheelchair on its back wheels

4. Lift the wheelchair over the threshold

The correct answer is: Push the wheelchair forward

Pushing the wheelchair forward when moving through a doorway is considered the safest approach for several reasons. This method allows the caregiver to maintain better control of the wheelchair and the client while also ensuring that the client remains positioned securely in the chair. By moving forward, the caregiver can see where they are going and anticipate any obstacles within the doorway or threshold. In addition, pushing forward keeps the client's center of gravity over the base of the wheelchair, reducing the risk of the chair tipping or the client being thrown off balance. This is particularly important if there are any variations in floor height or uneven surfaces. The other methods of transporting a client through a doorway can introduce unnecessary risks. Pulling the wheelchair backward, for instance, may lead to difficulty in maneuvering and can create a situation where the caregiver cannot see potential hazards in the path. Tipping the wheelchair on its back wheels can compromise the stability of the chair and the safety of the client, while lifting the chair over a threshold can lead to strain or injury for the caregiver and disorientation for the client. Thus, pushing the wheelchair forward is the most effective and secure method for this situation.