What is a patient transfer board used for?

A patient transfer board is specifically designed to enable safe and effective movement of patients from one surface to another, such as from a bed to a wheelchair or from a wheelchair to a transport stretcher. The board facilitates sliding, minimizing the risk of injury to both the patient and the healthcare provider by reducing the need for lifting. This method is particularly beneficial for patients who may have limited mobility and can help maintain their dignity and comfort during the transfer process.

The other options, while related to patient mobility and safety, do not accurately describe the primary function of a transfer board. For instance, assisting patients in walking typically involves different equipment like gait belts or walkers, and securing patients during transfers involves safety measures not associated with transfer boards. Additionally, modifying patient beds is unrelated to the operation or purpose of a transfer board. Thus, describing the primary use of a transfer board as sliding patients between surfaces accurately captures its essential role in the lifting and transferring process.