Which safety practice reduces risk of falls during mobility?

• A. Always leave the patient alone to encourage independence.
• B. Lock wheels of the wheelchair and apply brakes before transferring.
• C. Move quickly without assistance.
• D. Ignore patient complaints of dizziness.

Answer: (B)

Stabilizing the transfer surface before helping a patient move is essential to prevent falls. Locking the wheelchair wheels and applying brakes keeps the chair from moving if the patient shifts, or if the caregiver’s grip slips, so the patient remains in control and the transfer can be performed with a steady, predictable base.

This approach reduces the chance of the chair rolling, tipping, or slipping during transfers, which is a common moment for falls. It also supports proper body mechanics for the caregiver and helps ensure the patient can participate safely in the transfer.

Choosing to leave the patient alone, move quickly without help, or ignore symptoms like dizziness increases fall risk because the patient may lost balance or be unable to complete the transfer safely.