California Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What is the primary use of a gait belt in patient care?

1. For securing a resident to a chair

2. To assist in safely transferring and ambulating patients

3. As a restraint to limit movement

4. For holding oxygen supplies

The correct answer is: To assist in safely transferring and ambulating patients

The primary use of a gait belt in patient care is to assist in safely transferring and ambulating patients. A gait belt is specifically designed to provide caregivers with a secure way to support a patient while they are moving, which includes standing, walking, or transferring from one surface to another, like from a bed to a wheelchair. When using a gait belt, the caregiver can grip the belt firmly, allowing for better control and stability for both the patient and the caregiver. This tool is particularly valuable in preventing falls and ensuring that the patient feels secure during movement, which is crucial in maintaining their safety and confidence. The other choices suggest uses that do not align with the primary intention of the gait belt. For example, using a gait belt to secure a resident to a chair or as a restraint would not only be unsafe but would likely violate regulations regarding patient dignity and autonomy. Similarly, using it to hold oxygen supplies is unrelated to its designed purpose in facilitating safe patient mobility.