You walk into Mr. Henderson’s room and notice he has slid down in bed, looking uncomfortable. Instead of straining your back or grabbing him under the arms, you reach for the fabric folded under his hips. That is the draw sheet, and it is one of the most important tools for safe, efficient patient handling.
What is a Draw Sheet?
A draw sheet is a small sheet, often a regular bedsheet folded in thirds or a specialized disposable waterproof pad, placed horizontally across the middle of the bed underneath the patient. It typically spans from the patient’s upper back to below the buttocks. Its sole purpose is to act as a lifting and moving aid, allowing caregivers to reposition a patient up in bed or side-to-side without pulling directly on their body.
Why Draw Sheets Matter in Your Daily Care
Using a draw sheet is essential for preventing shear and friction injuries, which are the leading causes of skin tears and pressure ulcers. It also protects you from serious back injuries by promoting proper body mechanics. Instead of lifting the patient’s full weight, you use the sheet to leverage their body weight, making the move smoother for the resident and safer for you. It preserves the resident’s dignity by allowing you to move them securely and competently without awkward tugging or grabbing.
What You’ll See During Your Shift
You will use this tool most often during scheduled turns for pressure relief or when a resident slides down in bed. You will find yourself on one side of the bed while a coworker is on the other, grasping the exposed edge of the sheet.
“Okay, ready to turn Mrs. Rodriguez? I have the draw sheet rolled tight on my side. On the count of three, we’ll gently lift and slide her toward us. One, two, three…”
Common Pitfall & Pro Tip
⚠️ Pitfall: Leaving the draw sheet wrinkled or bunched up under the resident. This creates pressure points that can quickly lead to skin breakdown.
Pro Tip: Always fan the sheet out smooth under the resident after moving. Additionally, when prepping to move, roll the sides of the draw sheet inward toward the patient like a “burrito” to create firm, non-slip handles that give you a solid grip.
Memory Aid for Draw Sheet
Think “Draw” as in “Drawing water from a well”—you are pulling the heavy load up using a mechanical aid rather than your bare hands.
Or simply: “Handles for Heavy Hauling.”
State Test Connection
This is a critical component of the CNA skills exam, specifically under “Positioning a Client in Bed” or “Transferring.” You will likely be marked down if you attempt to move the mannequin without utilizing a draw sheet or turning pad.
Related Care Concepts
Mastering the draw sheet directly supports your understanding of body mechanics (lifting with your legs, not your back), prevention of pressure ulcers (reducing shear), and range of motion (maintaining proper alignment). It is also used alongside log-rolling techniques for residents with spinal precautions or hip replacements.
Quick Reference
✓ Key steps: Place sheet under hips/shoulders; roll edges to make handles; lift smoothly on count of three ✓ When to report: If the resident reports pain during the move or if the sheet is torn/soiled ✓ Care reminders: • Ensure sheet is smooth before and after moving • Never leave a resident sitting on a thick, bunched draw sheet • Coordinate movement with your partner to avoid injury • Use for turning side-to-side and moving up in bed
Bottom line: The draw sheet is your best defense against injury—for both you and your resident. Using it correctly shows you care about safety and professional standards.