Gait Belt Use and Pre-Treatment Vital Signs Policy

Purpose 

To ensure patient safety and reduce the risk of falls, injuries, or adverse events during therapy sessions, and to protect the safety of our patients and therapists.

Policy Statement 

All patients receiving therapy services must have their vital signs checked before the start of each therapy session, and a gait belt must be used for all patient handling, transfers, and ambulation, unless medically contraindicated.

This policy applies to all physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants.   

Definitions 

Gait Belt:  A safety device used to assist with transfers, standing, and ambulation by providing a secure point of contact for the clinician.  

Vital Signs:  Includes blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation; temperature may be taken if clinically indicated.  A blood pressure reading is required.

Medically Contraindicated:  A condition in which gait belt use is not appropriate (e.g., abdominal wounds, feeding tubes, severe pain). Contraindications must be documented.

Procedures

Pre‑Treatment Vital Signs 

Vital signs must be obtained and documented before the start of every therapy session.  If vital signs fall outside established clinical parameters or differ significantly from the patient’s baseline, the therapist must:  

• Reassess the patient  

• Determine whether therapy should be modified or deferred  

• Follow procedures for off-site emergency incident.

 

 Gait Belt Use

A gait belt must be applied for all patient transfers, standing activities, and ambulation, regardless of the patient’s age, diagnosis, or functional level.  The belt must be applied securely around the patient’s waist unless contraindicated.  

If gait belt use is contraindicated, the therapist must:  

• Document the reason  

• Implement alternative safety measures (e.g., additional staff assist, mobility device adjustments)