Proper Uses of Gait Transfer Belts

A gait transfer belt is used as a walking aid for patients with weakness, impaired balance or limited weight-bearing ability. It may also be used to aid a caregiver transferring a patient from bed to chair or repositioning a patient in a chair. Because the belt is held by at least one caregiver, it reduces the likelihood that a patient will fall. When properly used, gait transfer belts---also called gait belts---may also prevent injury to the caregiver.

How to Use

• Gait belts should be fastened around the patient's waist, over any clothing. The buckle of the belt should be positioned at patient's front. Pull the belt through the buckle until it fits snugly against the patient, with just enough room for the caregiver's fingers to fit underneath. Make sure the fasteners on the belt are locked. After the belt is properly positioned and secured, the caregiver grasps the belt and assists the patient in walking or transferring from place to place. Some gait belts have handles to aid in this process.

Preventing Patient Falls

• Patients should be assured that the gait belt is used to prevent them from falling---not as a restraint---and that the caregiver will remove it as soon as the transfer is complete. When walking with a patient using a gait belt, always walk on the patient's strongest side for added support.

Preventing Caregiver Injury

• Gait belts are intended for supporting the weight of a patient---not for lifting patients. The caregiver should keep her back straight and her knees bent, and should avoid twisting her body during the transfer. For heavier patients or patients with limited ability to cooperate, a second caregiver may be needed to assist the transfer. The Safe Lifting Portal points out that a caregiver may be injured if she is unable to quickly remove her hand from the handle of a gait belt if the patient starts to fall. Caregivers should be thoroughly trained in the proper use of gait belts to reduce the risk of injury to patients and themselves.

Considerations

• Gait belts are available in a variety of sizes and styles to meet patient needs. They are are used in hospitals and other care facilities and are sold through home health agencies, medical supply stores, some pharmacies and online.