How to Lift a Patient From the Floor

Lifting and moving a patient can be dangerous for the patient. Once you have assessed the situation and are ready to lift and move the patient, ask for assistance in lifting. It is possible to move a patient on your own, but it may be quite difficult if he is not alert. Lifting the patient should be accomplished as fast as possible if it is an emergency.

Things You'll Need

• Stretcher

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Instructions

• 1

  Place a stretcher on the floor directly next to the patient.

• 2

  Kneel down next to the patient with the stretcher on the opposite side of the patient.

• 3

  Place one arm under the patient's neck and the other arm under his shoulders. Have another person kneel next to you and place one arm under the patient's buttocks and the other arm under his legs between the buttocks and knees. If you must lift alone, place one arm under the patient's neck and the other arm under directly below his buttocks.

• 4

  Count to three and then both lift the patient slowly. Carefully shuffle your bodies toward the stretcher.

• 5

  Lay the patient on the stretcher, slowly. Once she is on the stretcher, attach any safety belts before lifting her.