A patient with a history of falls is wearing a gait belt. What is the correct technique for assisting this patient to walk?

Question

Accepted Answer

Grip the gait belt firmly on the sides and stay slightly behind and to the side of the patient. The correct technique is to grip the gait belt firmly on the sides and maintain a position slightly behind and to the side of the patient, allowing you to support them if they begin to fall. Holding it loosely defeats its purpose. Following behind without support is unsafe. The gait belt should always be used when indicated—not skipped in favor of arm support alone.