A pivot transfer moves a person who can bear some weight on their legs between two nearby seated surfaces — bed to chair, chair to toilet — by standing, turning on the stronger leg, and sitting back down. The caregiver blocks the person's weaker knee with their own, holds the gait belt, and guides a small controlled turn rather than lifting. It requires the person to have at least partial weight-bearing ability and enough alertness to follow simple directions. If the person cannot bear weight or cannot participate, a pivot transfer is the wrong tool and a mechanical lift or second helper is needed.
A pivot transfer moves a person who can bear some weight on their legs between two nearby seated surfaces, such as bed to wheelchair, by standing them briefly and turning on their stronger leg. The c…