Texas Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

Using a gait belt properly is essential for both patient safety and the caregiver's effectiveness. Positioning the gait belt around the patient's waist and ensuring it is snug provides the necessary support and stability when assisting the patient in walking or moving. A snug fit allows the caregiver to have a secure grip, which minimizes the risk of slippage or accidents during mobility. It is important to ensure that the belt is not too tight to the point of causing discomfort, but it should be fitted in such a way that it serves its purpose effectively.

The other options highlight practices that would not promote safety or comfort. For instance, using the gait belt only when a patient is sitting does not utilize the belt's primary purpose, which is to assist in mobility. Tying it loosely contradicts the primary function of providing support and could lead to the belt loosening during use, increasing the risk of falls. Additionally, using a gait belt without supervision is unsafe and undermines the required assistance and guidance for both the patient and the caregiver during the transfer or ambulation process.