Step 1. Stand the person up:

• Bring the wheelchair near the toilet.
• If the person has an unaffected or stronger leg, then it should be closest to the toilet, if possible.
• Lock the wheelchair and remove or swing away the footrests. Remove or swing away the wheelchair armrest that is closest to the toilet.
• Move the person forward to the edge of their wheelchair seat with their feet touching the floor.
• Tell the person what you are doing so that they are ready for the move.
• Grasp the back of their belt or pants and help them up to standing position.

Step 2. Move them onto the toilet:

• If the person has a weaker leg, then keep the person's weaker knee between your legs.
• Once standing, have the person take shuffle steps or pivot on their stronger leg toward the toilet, as you continue to hold on. Always transfer toward the person's stronger side if there is one.
• Ensure the person’s clothing is out of the way before lowering onto the toilet.
• Never pull on the person's weaker arm or lift them by the armpits.
• Gently sit them down on the toilet.

Important safety tips

Lifting a person can be hard on your back. To reduce the risk of a back injury, remember to do the following:

• Organize the steps in your head before you start.
• Explain the steps of the move and ask the person to tell you when they are ready to transfer.
• Keep the person close to you.
• Keep your knees bent and your back straight. Any lifting power comes from your legs and not your back.
• Avoid letting the person grasp or hold behind your neck.
• Use a transfer belt to provide a firm hold, rather than clasping your hands behind the person's back.
• Get help when you need it.
• Ask to practice with supervision.