Introduction

Assisting patients when moving from the wheelchair to ambulating may be a regular task in your work as a CNA. Read through the steps below before watching the demonstration video.

Procedure Steps
Demonstration Video
Google Doc

Ambulation from Wheelchair

1. Gather Supplies: Gait belt, wheelchair, nonskid footwear, and assistive devices if needed (walker or cane)

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 wheelchair to ensure they are locked.
- Verify the resident is wearing nonskid footwear.
- Properly place the gait belt around the resident’s waist.
- Check the gait belt for tightness by slipping your fingers between the gait belt and the resident.
- 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 wheelchair arms on the count of three to assist with standing.
- Count to three and assist the resident to a standing position.
- Provide the resident’s assistive device, as needed.
- Move to the weak side of the resident, slightly behind them. Hold the gait belt with your palms and fingertips pointing upwards.
- Stabilize the resident as they ambulate for the desired duration.
- Assist the resident to pivot/turn in front of the wheelchair.
- Ensure the wheelchair brakes are locked.
- Instruct the resident to grasp the arms of the wheelchair when the back of their knees touch the wheelchair seat.
- Assist the resident to a seated position in the wheelchair.
- Remove the gait belt.
- 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 8.12 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: Ambulation from Wheelchair

Licensing and Attribution