You are assisting a patient to use the commode. The patient suddenly becomes dizzy and starts to fall. What should you do?

Question

Accepted Answer

Use the gait belt to gently lower them to the floor in a controlled manner and call for help. Using the gait belt to control the descent and lowering the patient to the floor prevents a fall from a height and potential serious injury. Quickly moving them (A) may cause a sudden fall. Trying to catch them (C) may cause injury to both you and the patient. Leaving them (D) creates further fall risk. Controlled lowering with support is the safest technique when a patient begins to fall.