How to Move a Person to the Toilet

When moving a person who is unable to move independently to the toilet, it is necessary to select an appropriate method based on their physical condition and carry out the operation safely with the assistance of family members or helpers. The specific methods are as follows:

I. Wheelchair Transfer Method (Suitable for those who can sit in a wheelchair)

1. Preparation and Positioning: Ensure that the person is seated in the wheelchair, facing the toilet. Apply the wheelchair brakes and remove the footrests. Leave a space of about 30 - 40 centimeters between the wheelchair and the toilet for subsequent operations.
2. Helper's Positioning and Fixation: The family member should stand on the paralyzed side, facing the person. Use the lower limb (such as the knee) to fix the affected lower limb to prevent sliding. At the same time, place both hands on the person's lower back and thighs respectively to provide stable support.
3. Center-of-Gravity Transfer and Standing Up: The person wraps their healthy-side hand around the helper's neck or places it on the helper's shoulder. The helper supports the person's lower back with one hand and assists the person in leaning forward with the other hand, shifting the center of gravity to the feet so that the buttocks leave the wheelchair seat.
4. Turning and Positioning: The family member and the person move their feet backward and turn around simultaneously until the back of the legs is close to the edge of the toilet. After assisting in taking off the pants, the family member supports the person's lower back and slowly lowers the buttocks onto the toilet.

II. Using a Transfer Lift (Suitable for those who are completely unable to move independently)

1. Equipment Preparation and Fixation: Unfold the seat plate of the transfer lift and adjust it to match the width of the person's buttocks. Ensure that the load-bearing parts (such as the upper thighs) are fully in contact. After transferring the person from the bed to the seat plate, fix the double buckles (wrap the safety belt around the waist and fasten the buckles).
2. Movement and Positioning: Push the transfer lift to directly above the toilet and fine-tune the position using the universal wheels so that the back of the legs is close to the edge of the toilet.
3. Toilet Operation: After assisting in taking off the pants, slowly lower the seat plate (some transfer lifts can adjust the height) or use the built-in bedpan function. If using the toilet directly, ensure that the buttocks are fully in contact with the seat surface to avoid hanging in the air.

III. General Precautions

1. Safety First: Before operation, the wheels of the wheelchair or transfer lift must be fixed to prevent sliding. The floor should be dry and non-slip.
2. Individualized Adjustment: Select the method according to the person's condition (such as hemiplegia or paraplegia) and physical strength. Those with severe osteoporosis or joint diseases should follow the doctor's advice.
3. Regular Maintenance: The transfer lift should be checked monthly for the tightness of screws and the elasticity of the safety belt. The wheelchair should have its bearings lubricated regularly.
4. Other Tips: If the person has cognitive impairment, guide them to cooperate in advance through language or actions. It is recommended to carry out the first operation under the guidance of medical staff.