Which tool is commonly used to assist with patient transfers?

• A. Sphygmomanometer
• B. Trapeze bar
• C. Stethoscope
• D. Pulse oximeter

Answer: (B)

Safe patient transfer relies on assistive devices that let the patient participate and reduce strain on the caregiver. A trapeze bar is an overhead bar mounted above the bed that the patient can grasp with both hands. By pulling with the arms and pushing up, the patient can reposition from lying to sitting, shift toward the edge of the bed, or help move toward a chair. This supports safer transfers by enabling more control, reducing friction on the skin, and lowering the risk of falls or caregiver injuries.

Tools like a sphygmomanometer, stethoscope, and pulse oximeter are used for measuring or monitoring health status rather than aiding movement, so they don’t assist with transfers.