What is the purpose of using a gait belt during transfers?

• A. It serves as a decorative accessory
• B. It is used to immobilize the resident
• C. It provides a safe grip and helps maintain control during transfers
• D. It is used to guide the resident's legs

Answer: (C)

Gait belts are used to provide a secure, close-to-the-body grip that helps you guide and support a resident during transfers. By wrapping around the midsection over clothing, the belt gives you a stable handle to hold onto, allowing you to control the resident’s movement and center of gravity as you move them from bed to chair, chair to bed, or to another surface. This reduces the risk of falls for the resident and helps protect you from strain or injury by enabling proper body mechanics and a controlled, steady lift. It is not for decoration, not used to immobilize, and not meant to guide the legs.