CNA Certification (Written Exam)Infection Control and SafetyMedium
A nurse aide is transferring a weak resident from the bed to a wheelchair. Which action best helps prevent a fall during this transfer?
- AHave the resident hold onto the aide's neck for support
- BAllow the resident to transfer alone while the aide watches from the doorway
- CUse a properly applied gait belt around the resident's waist
- DTransfer the resident quickly to reduce time spent standing
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Use a properly applied gait belt around the resident's waist
A gait belt applied snugly around the resident's waist gives the aide a secure handhold to support and control the resident's movement during transfer, reducing fall risk. Grabbing the aide's neck, rushing, or leaving the resident unsupervised all increase the chance of injury.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Holding the neck can cause injury to the aide and does not stabilize the resident properly.
- B. Leaving a weak resident unsupervised during transfer is unsafe.
- D. Rushing increases the risk of losing balance and falling.
Gait Belt Use
A safety device applied around a resident's waist to provide a secure grip for the caregiver during transfers and ambulation, reducing fall risk.
- Applied snugly over clothing, not bare skin
- Used to guide, not lift, the resident
- Check for adequate strength/balance before transfer
Memory trick: Belt it before you move it — grip the belt, not the body.