When should a nurse use a gait belt for patient ambulation?

A gait belt, also called a transfer belt, should be used when assisting any patient who has weakness, unsteady gait, impaired balance, recent surgery, or a history of falls. It is placed snugly around the patient's waist over clothing and the nurse grips it from behind to support the patient during standing, walking, and transferring. The nurse should walk slightly behind and to the side of the patient. If the patient begins to fall, the nurse uses the belt to guide the patient slowly to the floor rather than trying to hold them upright. ---