How should a CNA support a patient when walking?

How should a CNA support a patient when walking?

• A. Walk behind the patient at a distance
• B. Stand beside or slightly behind the patient for support
• C. Instruct the patient to walk alone
• D. Hold the patient’s arm tightly

Answer: (B)

When assisting a patient while walking, standing beside or slightly behind them provides the best support and safety. This position allows the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to offer physical assistance as needed without compromising the patient's independence. By being alongside the patient, the CNA can quickly respond to any loss of balance, ensuring that the patient feels secure and supported during the activity. This approach also encourages the patient to take the lead in their mobility, promoting confidence and engagement in the walking process. It allows the CNA to monitor the patient’s gait and overall condition closely, which is essential for preventing falls and other accidents. In contrast, walking behind the patient does not offer immediate assistance in the event of an emergency, while instructing the patient to walk alone could lead to unsafe situations, especially if the patient is at risk of falling. Additionally, holding the patient's arm tightly can cause discomfort and create feelings of dependency, rather than fostering independence and self-assurance. Therefore, being beside or slightly behind the patient enhances both safety and autonomy during walking.

When assisting a patient while walking, standing beside or slightly behind them provides the best support and safety. This position allows the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) to offer physical assistance as needed without compromising the patient's independence. By being alongside the patient, the CNA can quickly respond to any loss of balance, ensuring that the patient feels secure and supported during the activity.

This approach also encourages the patient to take the lead in their mobility, promoting confidence and engagement in the walking process. It allows the CNA to monitor the patient’s gait and overall condition closely, which is essential for preventing falls and other accidents.

In contrast, walking behind the patient does not offer immediate assistance in the event of an emergency, while instructing the patient to walk alone could lead to unsafe situations, especially if the patient is at risk of falling. Additionally, holding the patient's arm tightly can cause discomfort and create feelings of dependency, rather than fostering independence and self-assurance. Therefore, being beside or slightly behind the patient enhances both safety and autonomy during walking.