Horizontal transfers between adjacent surfaces: forces required using different methods.
OBJECTIVE
To describe and compare pull forces required to move supine subjects between adjacent surfaces using different devices and methods.


METHODS
Descriptive, correlational, explicatory experiment.


METHODS
Convenience sample of volunteers.


METHODS
Alternative transfer devices and methods.


METHODS
Pull forces measured with dynamometers.


RESULTS
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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
Department of Physical Therapy, School of Allied Health, University of Connecticut, Storrs 06269-2101, USA.
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Bohannon
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001510:Bed Rest / Q000451:nursing; D001512:Bedding and Linens; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D004867:Equipment Design; D004865:Equipment and Supplies, Hospital; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017770:Lifting; D008297:Male; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D016683:Supine Position