CNA Skills # 25 : Assist the Resident in Walking Using a Gait Belt

1. Perform "opening procedure" (including hand hygiene).
2. Gather belt; resident already wearing non-skid shoes and robe.
3. Apply belt and make all belt adjustments while resident seated on bed.
4. Securely fasten belt snugly around resident's waist. Ask resident if dizzy prior to standing.
5. Place your knee between resident's knees.
6. Maintain a secure, underhand (palms-up) grasp to hold belt, using 2 hands to stand resident.
7. May instruct resident to assist (to stand) by having resident press hands on mattress.
8. On the count fo "three, assist resident to sit on the bed for all belt adjustments.
9. If necessary, assist resident to sit on the bed for all belt adjustments.
10. Maintain a palms up grasp (one hand grasping belt is OK)* while walking the resident.
11. Remain slightly behind and to the side of the resident while walking.
12. Ask resident if he/she is dizzy, tired, in pain, or short of breath while walking.
13. Return resident back to the room.
14. Lower resident onto bed, then release your 2-handed grasp. Leave gait belt on.
15. Perform "closing procedure" (including hand hygiene).

* 1 hand on belt as other hand supporting resident.