Which statement describes a reason to complete transfers?

• A. Prevents skin problems, weakness, and contractures
• B. Increases length of stay
• C. Reduces therapy engagement
• D. Decreases independence

Answer: (A)

Transfers are done to move a patient safely between surfaces while enabling movement and preventing complications from immobility. When transfers are performed correctly, they allow pressure relief and repositioning, which helps prevent skin problems. They also promote ongoing movement of joints and support maintaining muscle strength, so they’re less likely to develop weakness and contractures. In addition, doing transfers properly supports greater participation in therapy and can lead to more independence, rather than hindering it. The other ideas aren’t aligned with the goal of transfers: they don’t reflect why we train and perform transfers, and in practice, transfers aim to promote safety, engagement, and independence rather than extending stay or reducing participation.