Introduction

Transferring patients correctly with a gait belt is essential to your work as a CNA. Read through the steps below before watching the demonstration video.

Procedure Steps
Demonstration Video
Google Doc

Transfer from Bed to Chair with a Gait Belt

1. Gather Supplies: Gait belt, wheelchair, and nonskid footwear

2. Routine Pre-Procedure Steps:

- Knock on the client’s door.
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Introduce yourself and identify the resident.
- Maintain respectful, courteous, and professional communication at all times.
- Provide for privacy.
- Explain the procedure to the client.

3. Procedure Steps:

- Check the brakes on the bed to ensure they are locked.
- Remove the foot pedals from the wheelchair if needed.
- Assist the resident to a seated position on the side of the bed with their feet on the floor; allow them to dangle their feet for a few minutes.
- Assist the resident in putting on nonskid footwear.
- Place the gait belt on the resident.
- Position the wheelchair at the head or foot of the bed so the resident will move towards the wheelchair with the stronger side of their body. The wheelchair should touch the side of the bed.
- Lock the brakes on the wheelchair.
- Ask the resident if they feel dizzy or light-headed.
- Face the resident and place each of your feet in front of the resident’s feet to prevent them from slipping.
- Instruct the resident to push up on the bed to aid in standing on the count of three.
- Grasp the gait belt with both hands, with your palms and fingertips pointing up.
- Count to three and assist the resident to stand.
- Assist the resident to pivot.
- Instruct the resident to grasp the arms of the wheelchair when they can feel the back of their knees are in contact with the wheelchair seat.
- Assist the resident to a seated position in the wheelchair.
- Remove the gait belt gently to avoid skin injury.
- Release the wheelchair brakes.

4. Post-Procedure Steps:

- Check on resident comfort and ask if anything else is needed.
- Ensure the bed is low and locked. Check the brakes.
- Place the call light or signaling device within reach of the resident.
- Open the door and privacy curtain.
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Document weight and report abnormal findings to the nurse.

> This information can be found in Section 8.9 of the book.

Please click on the link below to access the skills checklist. This checklist can be printed and cut out for an in-class activity.

Skills Checklist: Transfer from Bed to Chair with a Gait Belt

Licensing and Attribution