Applying a Gait Belt

A gait belt is a device that helps to prevent falls. The belt provides a handle that allows school personnel to assist the learner with balance and prevent falls. The belt is applied around the child’s waist right above their hips. The instructional steps assist the registered nurse working under the auspices of the school or program in professional judgement and accountability of delegation. Additional steps may be required depending on the learner’s health needs.

Steps

1. Gather the belt
2. Explain the procedure to the student
3. Wash your hands
4. Place the belt around the student’s waist at the top of the hips with the tag facing the student
5. Start threading on end of the gait belt behind the buckle
6. Thread the metal tip forward over the metal teeth toward the opposite side of the buckle
7. Pull the metal tip completely through the buckle to tighten
8. Pull the slack through the buckle area as necessary
9. Check the student’s response by:
   1. Looking for nonverbal communication
   2. Communicating with the student to ask if they are comfortable
10. Tuck the remaining tail of the belt over and under the belt
11. From behind the student, you will hold the strap form underneath with your fingers pointing up and grasp the belt securely
12. Stand closely to the student when transferring
13. After transferring, wash your hands
14. Follow any additional steps unique to the student’s delegated care as instructed by the school nurse.
15. Document the date, time, procedure, student’s response, your initials and signature