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Assisting with ambulation using a gait belt: CNA skills test steps

Updated · Reviewed against official sources

Lock the bed, lower it, put nonskid footwear and a gait belt on the resident, help them stand, then walk slightly behind and to the weaker side while holding the belt from underneath. Walk the distance your evaluator directs and help the resident back to bed or a chair safely.

Your state's nurse aide candidate handbook is the authority on exam format, skills lists and scoring. This page explains the general picture and links the official sources.

Steps

KEYmarks 9 steps that candidate handbooks commonly treat as critical. Missing a critical step usually fails the skill.

  1. 1Knock, introduce yourself by name and title, and greet the resident by name.
  2. 2Identify the resident (for example, check the name band or ask the resident to state their name) per facility policy.
  3. 3Explain the procedure in simple words and ask the resident to help as much as they are able.
  4. 4Key step: Provide privacy: close the door and pull the curtain.
  5. 5Key step: Perform hand hygiene before touching the resident.
  6. 6Key step: Lock the bed wheels and lower the bed so the resident's feet rest flat on the floor.
  7. 7Help the resident sit on the edge of the bed and check for dizziness.
  8. 8Key step: Put nonskid footwear on the resident.
  9. 9Key step: Apply the gait belt snugly at the waist over clothing.
  10. 10Grasp the belt from underneath, count together, and help the resident stand.
  11. 11Key step: Walk slightly behind and to the weaker side, holding the belt with one hand and supporting with the other as needed.
  12. 12Watch for signs of fatigue, pain or dizziness; if the resident starts to fall, ease them to the floor while protecting the head.
  13. 13Walk the required distance, then help the resident back to the bed or chair and sit down safely.
  14. 14Remove the gait belt and help the resident to a comfortable position.
  15. 15Key step: Return the bed to its lowest position and make sure the wheels are locked.
  16. 16Key step: Place the call light and personal items within the resident's reach.
  17. 17Key step: Open the privacy curtain, perform hand hygiene, and report anything unusual to the nurse.

Common mistakes

  • Walking in front of the resident or on the stronger side.
  • Holding the resident's arm instead of the belt.
  • Letting the resident walk in socks or slippers without nonskid soles.
  • Trying to catch a falling resident instead of easing them down.

Quick answers

Where do you stand when ambulating a resident?
Slightly behind and on the resident's weaker side, holding the gait belt from underneath.
What if the resident starts to fall?
Do not try to hold them up. Keep your back straight, pull them close and ease them to the floor, protecting their head, then call for help.

What to do next

Skills and the written test are scored separately, and you must pass both. Check your written readiness in about 15 minutes.

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Related

Sources

Checked: . Rules, fees and vendors change — always confirm with your state's official page and candidate handbook.