Removable Armrests are Appropriate for Which Patient Group to Improve Safety and Ease of Transfers?

• A. Fixed Armrests
• B. Armrests With Adjustable Height
• C. No Armrests
• D. Removable Armrests

Answer: (D)

Removable armrests are useful because they allow the transfer surface to come in very close to the patient, which is essential for safe and easy transfers from bed, chair, or other surfaces. By detaching the arms, a caregiver can position a transfer board or sliding sheet, align the hips and feet, and reduce gaps that would make pivoting or sliding difficult. This setup also minimizes awkward angles, lowers the risk of tipping, and enables more secure coaching and assistive handling during the transfer. Once the transfer is complete, reattaching the armrests provides the needed upper-limb support and stability for comfortable seating and further repositioning. Fixed armrests can obstruct close approach, adjustable-height arms still get in the way during the transfer, and having no armrests removes needed support, making transfers safer and more challenging.