Transfer Using Gait Belt PDF
Transfer Using Gait Belt PDF
Transfer Using Gait Belt PDF
PURPOSE: To provide safety and protection from possible injury during transfer and
ambulation.
continued
ACTION: 11. Make sure the individual can see the surface to which he is
transferring.
12. Always move your body in the direction in which the transfer is
taking place.
13. Make sure the individual is wearing shoes.
14. When the destination has been reached, gently lower and encourage
the individual to use his or her arms to reach toward the destination
and bear some of the weight.
15. Remove the belt once the individual is comfortably and safely seated.
Notes:
• If the individual is particularly heavy or has difficulty supporting their
own weight, consider using a lift transfer device.
• The gait belt may also be used to aide walking by positioning
yourself slightly to the rear of the individual and holding the belt at
the small of the back of the individual as he/she walks.
REFERENCE: Excerpted and adapted from Perry AG, Potter PA: Clinical nursing skills
&techniques, ed 7, St. Louis, 2010, Mosby.