Basic Nursing SkillsQuestion 83 of 200

When transferring a resident with right-sided weakness from bed to wheelchair, the CNA should position the wheelchair:

a.Behind the head of the bed, with the wheels locked and footrests up
b.On the weak (right) side, at a 45° angle to the bed, with the wheels locked and footrests up
c.On the strong (left) side, at a 45° angle to the bed, with wheels locked, footrests up
d.Across the room, with the brakes set and the footrests removed

Explanation

Position the wheelchair on the resident's strong side at about 45° to allow weight bearing through the stronger leg during the pivot. Lock wheels, raise footrests, and apply a gait belt for control. Wheelchair on the weak side (b) forces weight on the affected leg and risks fall; behind the bed (a) or across the room (d) is not reachable and increases shear/falls. Always use the strong limbs to lead and weight-bear.

Law Reference: Fundamentals; gait belt safe transfer

This topic, taught in full in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) guide. CNA — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 · 14-day refund →

Practice all 200 questions free — no signup required.

Own the complete Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) guide — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 →

Related questions on this topic

Last reviewed: · editorial process

PrepPass team · Verified against California CNA Certification Exam · How we review
Report