Which term describes guidelines used to properly use a wheelchair while preventing further injury?

• A. White Blood Cells
• B. Wheelchair Safety
• C. Water Pitcher
• D. Wandering Resident

Answer: (B)

Wheelchair safety guidelines—the rules and practices that ensure a resident can use a wheelchair without getting hurt or causing harm to others. This includes preparing the chair and environment before movement, such as locking the brakes when the resident is seated or being transferred, and making sure footrests are in place so feet don’t drag or get caught. Proper positioning matters too: hips and knees should be at comfortable angles, the back supported, and clothing kept free from wheels to prevent snagging. When transferring or assisting, use careful, steady movements and keep the resident close to your body to reduce the risk of tipping or losing balance. Regular checks of the wheelchair, like tires, brakes, and any safety features, help prevent mechanical failures that could cause injury. These guidelines aim to minimize falls, skin problems from poor seating, and other injuries that can happen if a wheelchair is used improperly. Other terms that aren’t about using a wheelchair safely—for example, a blood component, a common household item, or a behavioral issue—don’t describe this set of safety practices.