Transferring Patients

Patient transfer occurs at different points in the OR and with patients in varying levels of consciousness. One of the most important aspects of patient transfer is to ensure there is enough staff to make the transfer. This is for both patient safety and the safety of all perioperative personnel.

When moving the patient from the stretcher/in-patient bed to the OR table or vice versa, both tables must be in the locked position. There needs to be staff on the receiving side and the transferring side of the patient. Patients who are in an altered conscious state should have additional personnel at the head and foot, in addition to personnel at the sides. Typically, the anesthesia provider is at the head of the bed protecting the patient’s airway and neck.

The timing of the patient transfer can vary depending on the type of anesthetic used, the surgical site involved, and if the patient is conscious and in pain. The patient is not positioned until the anesthesia provider says the team is safe to do so.

Patients receiving general anesthesia who will be positioned prone will have the induction done on their stretcher and then be transported onto the OR table, with at least four personnel for a safe transfer.

Patient privacy should always be maintained, including the use of a warm cotton blanket. The patient’s gown should be untied before transferring so they do not lie in knots during the procedure.

Note: The patient should never be left unattended on the OR table until the safety strap is applied, despite their level of consciousness.