To safely move a client up in bed, what should the nurse aide do first?

Getting assistance from a coworker is the recommended first step when moving a client up in bed to ensure safety for both the client and the nurse aide. This approach not only promotes the safety of the resident by minimizing the risk of harm and ensuring proper body mechanics but also helps in distributing the workload effectively. When two individuals work together, they can communicate more efficiently about the patient's needs and abilities, making the process smoother and reducing the chance of injury.

Using a sliding sheet is effective and can be a helpful tool in repositioning, but it typically comes into play after ensuring that there are adequate hands available for support. Lifting the client alone can pose significant risks, as it may lead to strain or injury for the caregiver, along with increasing the risk of discomfort or harm to the client. Asking the client to help may not always be appropriate, depending on their level of mobility or cognitive ability, and could inadvertently put them at risk. Therefore, the priority is to seek assistance first to ensure a safe and effective transfer.