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D008_assisting_with_ambulation

Patient Mobility Assistance Steps

Getting the Patient Out of Bed

  • Lower the bed as much as possible.

  • Lower the side rail nearest to you.

  • Slowly position the patient into Fowler's upright position.

  • Stand on the patient's stronger side if no assistive device is used (cane, walker, etc.). If an assistive device is used, stand on the patient's weaker side.

Transitioning to Sitting

  • Help the patient sit on the side of the bed, letting her dangle legs for stability.

  • Encourage the patient to take deep breaths to regain balance.

  • Assist the patient into her robe and then instruct her to move her legs and feet in a circular motion.

  • Help put on non-skid slippers or shoes.

Securing the Gait Belt

  • Ask the patient if she feels dizzy or lightheaded before proceeding.

  • Secure the gait belt snugly around the patient's waist.

  • Confirm comfort of the gait belt fit with the patient.

Assisting to Stand

  • Grasp the gait belt near the midpoint of the patient's back.

  • Assist the patient to a standing position while observing her balance.

  • Reassess if the patient feels dizzy or lightheaded during standing.

Ambulation Support

  • Instruct the patient to use her cane if necessary and assess for any additional arrangements such as:

    • Portable IV pole for patients with continuous IV infusion.

    • Ensure urinary drainage bag is managed correctly, carried below bladder level and with no tension on the tubing.

  • Guide the patient to take steps, always being positioned appropriately based on the patient's strength or assistive device usage.

Managing Weakness or Dizziness

  • If the patient displays weakness or dizziness, immediately:

    • Return her to bed.

    • Guide her towards a chair closest to her.

  • Allow the patient to rest for a moment to recover from dizziness, checking her comfort level continuously.

Continuing Ambulation

  • After checking on the patient's condition, attempt to continue walking again.

  • Instruct the patient to push off from the bed to get up.

  • Assess strength and balance as the patient takes a few steps forward:

    • Guide her to alternate between left and right legs.

Final Check

  • Monitor the patient continuously throughout the process to ensure safety and comfort.