When assisting a weak patient from a bed to a wheelchair, which step should be taken first?

The first step when assisting a weak patient from a bed to a wheelchair is to seat the patient on the side of the bed with their feet touching the floor. This step is important because it allows the patient to acclimate to being upright after being in a lying position, which can help prevent dizziness or lightheadedness due to sudden changes in posture.

Additionally, having the patient's feet on the floor provides a stable base of support, making it easier for them to stand up when it's time to transfer to the wheelchair. This positioning prepares the patient physically and mentally for the transfer process, promoting safety and comfort.

Starting with this step also sets up an effective and safe transfer procedure, laying the groundwork for the subsequent steps, such as using proper body mechanics to assist the patient in standing and moving to the wheelchair.