When assisting a resident with ambulation, where should the nursing assistant position themselves?

When a nursing assistant is assisting a resident with ambulation, positioning alongside the resident, particularly on the weaker side, is important for safety and support. The primary reason for this positioning is to provide the resident with stability and assistance in case they begin to lose their balance. By standing on the weaker side, the nursing assistant can effectively catch or support the resident if they start to fall and facilitate their mobility more safely.

This position allows the nursing assistant to offer appropriate support without hindering the resident's natural walking pattern, and it also enables the assistant to keep close enough to provide immediate help if needed. Furthermore, having the nursing assistant positioned on the weaker side can help encourage the resident to rely on their stronger side for balance, promoting independence while ensuring safety during the ambulation process.

Positioning in front or behind the resident may not provide the same level of support and may increase the risk of falls, while being strictly to the right side may not address the specific needs of a resident who has a weakness on one side. Therefore, standing on the weaker side is considered the best practice for ensuring the resident’s safety during ambulation.