If a patient loses balance forward on stairs, which action should you take first?

If a patient loses balance forward on stairs, which action should you take first?

• A. Pull back on gait belt
• B. Control trunk
• C. Move closer
• D. Help regain upright

Answer: (B)

When balance is lost forward on stairs, stabilizing the trunk is the immediate priority. Controlling the trunk dampens forward motion, keeps the center of gravity over a stable base, and protects the head and neck from a sudden impact against the steps. This stable core position creates a safer platform from which you can safely guide the patient, adjust your position, and plan the next recovery steps. Pulling back on the gait belt or simply moving closer are helpful actions, but without first stabilizing the trunk you may not effectively control the collapse or protect the body from a hard impact. Helping the patient regain upright comes after the trunk is stabilized, once you have a secure base to work from.

When balance is lost forward on stairs, stabilizing the trunk is the immediate priority. Controlling the trunk dampens forward motion, keeps the center of gravity over a stable base, and protects the head and neck from a sudden impact against the steps. This stable core position creates a safer platform from which you can safely guide the patient, adjust your position, and plan the next recovery steps.

Pulling back on the gait belt or simply moving closer are helpful actions, but without first stabilizing the trunk you may not effectively control the collapse or protect the body from a hard impact. Helping the patient regain upright comes after the trunk is stabilized, once you have a secure base to work from.