Design and application of a novel surgical transfer sheet: a randomized controlled trial

To evaluate the safety of an innovative surgical transfer sheet, already designed to integrate "safety, comfort, convenience, and cost-effectiveness," and to quantify its impact on staff workload. The assessment was performed via a randomized controlled trial to generate evidence for improved postoperative transfer practices.

An experimental design was applied for this study. This study included 124 postoperative surgical patients transfer events from a Shanghai tertiary hospital between November 2023 and February 2024. Participants included both the patients and the clinical staff involved in the transfer evaluations. The patients were randomly allocated via random number table to experimental (n = 62) and control (n = 62) groups. The experimental group utilized a polyurethane foam-nylon fiber composite transfer sheet, while the control group employed standard linens. The clinical staff participating in the post-transfer evaluation comprised one anesthesiologist, two ward nurses, and one operating room support staff per procedure. Outcome measures included transfer time, pre-post transfer vital sign variability (respiratory rate, heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation), pain scores, adverse event rates, as well as staff musculoskeletal strain and satisfaction levels.

Compared to controls, the experimental group demonstrated significantly shorter transfer times (P < 0.01), superior hemodynamic stability with lower heart rates (P < 0.05) and reduced systolic blood pressure variability (P < 0.05). No significant between-group differences were observed in tube dislodgement rates or critical vital sign fluctuations (P > 0.05). Clinical staff reported significantly decreased physical exertion (P < 0.01) and higher satisfaction scores (P < 0.05) when using the novel device.

The novel transfer sheet effectively enhances transfer efficiency, maintains hemodynamic stability, reduces staff physical strain, and improves clinical workflow satisfaction. This innovation provides an evidence-based solution for safe postoperative patient transfer.

The full date of first registration: June 10, 2025, Registration Number: ChiCTR2500104043.

This study was retrospectively registered as a randomized controlled trial in the Chinese Clinical Trial Center. Registration Date: June 10, 2025; Registration Number: ChiCTR2500104043 (URL: https://www.chictr.org.cn/bin/project/edit?pid=272378 ).