Which tool is most effective for promoting safety when ambulating an elderly patient who is a fall risk?

Gait belt. Patients who are a fall risk and need to ambulate pose a special safety concern. One of the most effective measures to promote patient safety while ambulating is a gait belt, which allows the nurse or other caregiver to help stabilize and guide the patient safely. This is preferred over a cane which provides support but does not help to stabilize the patient’s center of gravity. Loose fitting clothing is inappropriate for a patient who is a fall risk as it can get tangled and cause the patient to stumble. It is not appropriate to ask a family member to support the patient as they are not trained to ambulate patients who are fall risks.

Which tool is most effective for promoting safety when ambulating...

Category: Safety and Infection Control
Difficulty: 4

Topics: Disease Prevention Communication & Documentation Health Care Ethics, Law, and Policy Health Care Quality Health Promotion Mobility Nursing Interventions

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