Ambulation
Assisted walking; the LPN ambulates stable clients with a gait belt and reports any dizziness or unsteadiness to the RN.
Getting a client walking early is one of the cheapest ways to prevent the complications of staying in bed: clots, pneumonia, constipation, and pressure injuries. The LPN ambulates clients whose condition is stable, following the activity level the RN or provider has ordered. Sit the client on the edge of the bed first and let the legs dangle, watching for dizziness or a drop in blood pressure before standing.
Apply a gait belt, bring any prescribed walker or cane, and clear cords and clutter from the route before you start. Stop and report to the RN if the client becomes dizzy, short of breath, or unsteady, or if the pulse or blood pressure changes on standing. A client whose tolerance has clearly declined needs the RN to reassess before the next attempt.
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