ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the preparation for transfer and the transfer process, taking into account physiological complications, organisational challenges and human factor errors that may occur during the transfer process. Strategies through which these risks may be mitigated are discussed. The chapter differentiates between intra and inter-hospital transfers and identifies reasons for transferring acutely ill patients. Ethico-legal issues that may arise when transferring patients are debated. The ABCDE format is used, and safe and effective preparation of the patient and the equipment prior to transfer is described. Physiological and psychological complications that the patient may endure during the transfer process, and ways in which to alleviate them are reviewed.
