Horizontal transfers between adjacent surfaces: forces required using different methods.

Abstract

To describe and compare pull forces required to move supine subjects between adjacent surfaces using different devices and methods. Descriptive, correlational, explicatory experiment. Convenience sample of volunteers. Alternative transfer devices and methods. Pull forces measured with dynamometers. Pull forces associated with transfers with no device, a draw sheet, a Patient Shifter, and an Easy Slide differed significantly (F = 245.1, p < .001), but were correlated significantly (p < .001) with one another (r > .89) and subjects' body weights (r > .82). Pull forces required for transfers with the Easy Slide were lowest. Use of friction-reducing transfer devices significantly decreased the forces required for transferring individuals between adjacent surfaces. The magnitude of this decrease in this study was greatest with the Easy Slide.