Why should a nursing assistant use a gait belt when assisting a resident to walk?

Using a gait belt is primarily about ensuring the safety of the resident while ambulating. When assisting someone with walking, there is always a risk of them losing their balance or becoming unsteady. The gait belt provides the nursing assistant with a secure way to hold onto the resident, helping to prevent falls and provide support if the resident should begin to stagger or fall. It allows for a controlled and safe method of guiding the resident while walking, making it a vital tool for promoting safety during mobility activities.

The other options, while they highlight the potential uses of a gait belt, do not capture its primary purpose as effectively. For example, while a gait belt can assist in standing or transferring, these actions are secondary to its role in ensuring a safe walking experience. Additionally, keeping the resident comfortable is important but is not the main focus when utilizing a gait belt, which is designed specifically for stability and safety during movement.