How to Use a Gait Belt

For caregivers, nurses, or anyone assisting someone with limited mobility, a gait belt is a helpful tool to make the task easier and safer for both parties. Gait belts can be fastened around a patient’s waist and held by the caregiver to provide stability as they stand, sit, walk, or are transferred from one place to another. On top of reducing the likelihood of a fall and improving patient confidence, gait belts also help prevent caregiver injuries by more evenly distributing a patient’s weight as  compared to lifting someone freehand.

Keep reading to learn more, including our recommendations for proper gait belt use. 

What is a Gait Belt?

A gait belt, also frequently referred to as a transfer belt, is a safety device used by caregivers to assist patients with sitting, standing, and walking. They are usually made out of a durable material such as nylon, leather, or canvas and have a buckle on one end. The width and length may vary, but most gait belts are anywhere from 1.5-4 inches wide and 54-60 inches long. This is likely to leave a lot of slack on the end once fastened but allows for most gait belts to fit any patient. In addition, some gait belts have loops on them to provide caregivers with a better grip.

There are two common types of gait belts:

• Standard: A standard gait belt has a metal buckle on the end. To secure it, run the belt through the grooves in the buckle and then through the loop.
• Quick-Release: A quick-release gait belt has a simpler, plastic buckle that clips into place and is faster and easier to secure or remove.

How to Use a Gait Belt

Ensuring proper gait belt use is crucial for the health and safety of both the patient and caregiver. Follow these steps for best results:

1. Clear the area and intended path of any potential obstacles.
2. Tell the patient that you’re going to use a gait belt and explain the process to them so they’re prepared.
3. Fasten the gait belt, following the steps outlined above for standard vs. quick-release belts. Align the buckle just off center on the patient’s stomach.
4. Check before you tighten the belt to ensure that at least one layer of clothing is in between the patient’s skin and the belt. This will help prevent chafing. For frailer or older patients, consider adding an extra layer of cloth for protection.
5. Tighten the gait belt around the patient’s waist, being sure to leave enough room for two fingers to fit between the belt and their body.
6. Move to stand facing the patient. Bend down using your knees while keeping your back completely straight. Remember that practicing proper form is key to reducing your risk of injury.
7. Place your arms around the patient’s waist, sliding one hand under the belt and resting the other on their back. Your grip should be underhanded with your palm up, not palm down.
8. Lift up using your knees, maintaining a firm grip on the belt with one hand and steady presence on their back with the other. As you prepare to lift, it can be helpful to count down with the patient so they are prepared to move in sync with you.

How to Use a Gait Belt When Walking

A gait belt can also be helpful for providing stability when patients are walking. Follow these steps for best results:

1. Move behind and to the side of the patient. If they have a stronger and weaker side, stand off to their weaker side in order to best position yourself in the event they fall or lose their balance.
2. Grip the gait belt with the same firm, underhanded method outlined above.
3. Tell the patient when they can begin walking. Do not lead or pull them, but rather let them set the pace and maintain that pace behind them.
4. Be prepared. If the patient begins to fall or lose their balance, maintain your firm grip on the gait belt and slowly guide them down. Your off-center position should have placed your leg directly behind their back, so use that leg to gently brace their back as you guide them to the floor.

Closing Thoughts

Knowing how to use a gait belt is a valuable skill. Following the best practices outlined above, you should be more prepared to assist your patients or loved ones with limited mobility.

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Sources

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration. “Guidelines for Nursing Homes” https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/final_nh_guidelines.pdf. 30 June 2020.