What is wrapped around a geriatric patient's waist to assist in and out of a wheelchair?
According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, up to 1 million hospitalized patients fall each year, with many falls occurring during transfers. A device known as a gait belt or transfer belt is wrapped around a geriatric patient's waist to assist in and out of a wheelchair, providing a safe and secure way for caregivers to aid with mobility. This tool is crucial for reducing the risk of falls for the patient and back injuries for the caregiver.