What does the term "transferring a patient" mean?

The term "transferring a patient" specifically refers to the action of moving a patient from one location to another, such as from a bed to a wheelchair, or from one room to another in a healthcare facility. This process is critical in providing care, ensuring that patients are safely moved while minimizing the risk of injury to both the patient and the caregiver. Proper techniques and equipment, such as gait belts or lifts, are often employed during transfer to enhance safety and comfort.

In contrast, administering medication, teaching about a patient’s condition, and evaluating service needs focus on different aspects of patient care—medical treatment, education, and assessment, respectively. These tasks do not involve the physical movement of the patient and therefore do not align with the definition of transferring a patient.