388 Unit 4 Healthcare Skills Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Another approach is for the patient to sit on the stairs and inch up or down each step (Figure 13.22). The patient should hold the weak leg out in front of her body, and carry both crutches fl at against the stairs in the hand opposite the railing. She should scoot her bottom up or down to the next step, us- ing the free hand and strong leg for support. 19. When ambulation is complete, help the patient return to her room (or bed). Remove and put away the gait belt, robe, crutches, and shoes. Procedure 13.3 Assisting with Ambulation Using Crutches (continued) Wards Forest Media, LLC Figure 13.22 Wards Forest Media, LLC Figure 13.21 Follow-up 20. Make sure the patient is safe and comfortable. Place the call light and personal items within easy reach. 21. Wash your hands to ensure infection control. Reporting and Documentation 22. Communicate any specifi c observations, complications, or unusual responses to the appropriate provider. Also record this information in the patient’s chart or EMR. Ambulating with a Walker Some patients need more support with ambulation than a cane or crutches can provide. In such cases, a walker is often a better option. The walker lets patients take all or some of their weight off their lower body by using their arms as they ambulate. A patient should never try to climb stairs or use an escalator with a walker. There are different types of walkers (Figure 13.23). A standard, pickup walker is made of lightweight metal and has four solid legs with rubber