What should a PCT do when assisting a patient with mobility?

Providing physical support and using assistive devices if necessary is crucial for ensuring patient safety and promoting optimal mobility. When assisting patients with mobility, it is important to recognize that many individuals may require different levels of assistance based on their condition, stability, and familiarity with their surroundings.

By providing physical support, the Patient Care Technician (PCT) can help stabilize the patient, preventing falls and injuries. Additionally, using assistive devices, such as walkers, canes, or wheelchairs, can enhance the patient's ability to move safely and independently, while still allowing for necessary guidance and support.

Verbal guidance alone may not offer enough safety for patients with mobility challenges, as they may struggle to balance or navigate uneven surfaces without additional help. Similarly, allowing a patient to navigate without assistance can be unsafe, particularly for those who are unsteady or recovering from surgery. Encouraging complete independence could overlook the needs of patients who may benefit from support to feel confident and secure in their movements.