What is the correct way to assist a patient using a walker?

Assisting a patient using a walker involves ensuring their safety and promoting proper use of the device for support. The correct approach is to instruct the patient to place the walker a step ahead and then use it for support. This method provides stability since the walker acts as a reliable support structure that the patient can lean on while they step forward.

When the patient places the walker a step ahead, they create a safe distance for themselves to engage with the walker effectively. This promotes a natural walking rhythm, allowing the patient to maintain balance and confidence as they move. It also ensures that the walker is positioned correctly to provide maximum support when the patient transfers their weight onto it.

The other options would lead to unsafe practices. For instance, pushing the walker ahead too quickly could cause the patient to lose their balance and fall. Walking without the walker is not advisable as it could compromise the patient's stability, particularly if they depend on the walker for assistance. Additionally, pulling the walker backward is incorrect as it does not provide the intended support and can lead to accidents. Thus, the advised technique ensures that patients feel secure and are using the walker as designed, effectively aiding their mobility.