What is the purpose of using a gait belt?

• A. To measure gait speed
• B. To provide support at the waist and keep the patient's center of gravity midline
• C. To tie the patient to the bed
• D. To decorate the patient

Answer: (B)

A gait belt provides a secure grip at the patient’s waist to support and guide them during transfers and ambulation. By wrapping around the midsection, it helps keep the patient’s center of gravity midline, which improves balance and reduces the risk of falls during standing, pivoting, or walking. The belt gives the caregiver a controlled point of contact that allows safer assistance without pulling on the patient’s arms or clothing. It should be worn over clothing, fastened snugly with a little room to slip a finger under it, and grasped from behind or at the sides while using proper body mechanics. It is not for tying the patient to a bed, decorating, or measuring gait speed.