Ambulation From Wheelchair
Key Points
- Safe ambulation starts with locked wheelchair brakes, gait-belt setup, and nonskid footwear.
- Assistant position is on the resident’s weak side and slightly behind while supporting gait belt.
- Controlled return to seated position requires brake verification and cueing when knees contact chair.
Equipment
- Gait belt
- Wheelchair
- Nonskid footwear
- Ordered assistive device (walker or cane) if indicated
- Hand hygiene supplies
Procedure Steps
- Perform routine pre-procedure actions: knock, identify resident, explain procedure, provide privacy, and perform hand hygiene.
- Verify wheelchair brakes are locked before standing attempt.
- Confirm resident has nonskid footwear.
- Apply gait belt and confirm snug fit (fingers can slide under belt).
- Ask about dizziness/light-headedness before standing.
- Stand facing resident with stable stance and feet positioned for slip prevention.
- Cue resident to push up from wheelchair arms and stand on count of three.
- Assist to standing and provide ordered assistive device.
- Move to resident’s weak side, slightly behind, and support gait belt with palms/fingertips up.
- Stabilize and guard while resident ambulates for planned duration.
- Pivot resident back in front of wheelchair, recheck brakes locked, and cue armrest reach when knees touch seat.
- Assist controlled sit, remove gait belt, release brakes when safe, then complete post-procedure comfort/safety and documentation.
Common Errors
- Beginning ambulation with unlocked brakes → unstable start and fall risk.
- Standing on strong side when weakness is unilateral → reduced protective support.
- No dizziness check before stand → orthostatic fall risk.
- Sitting resident before knees align with chair → missed seat and injury risk.
Related
- assisting-with-ambulation - Device selection and gait-support principles guide this procedure.
- transfer-from-bed-to-chair-with-gait-belt - Shared gait-belt safety and controlled pivot mechanics.