Which item can enhance safety while lifting a patient?

Using a gait belt is an essential safety measure when lifting or moving a patient. This device provides caregivers with a secure way to grasp and maintain control while assisting a patient, significantly reducing the risk of slips and falls. The belt is designed to be placed around the patient’s waist, allowing the caregiver to hold on securely while providing support. This hands-on support is especially critical when helping patients who may be unsteady or require additional stability during transfers.

Comfortable shoes, while important for the caregiver’s own safety and comfort, do not directly enhance safety for the patient during lifting maneuvers. Similarly, having an extra pair of hands may offer support, but without proper tools and techniques, it does not specifically address the safety of the method being used. On the other hand, a heavy lifting machine, while potentially useful in some contexts, can inadvertently introduce complications if not used correctly and requires specific training and knowledge to operate safely. Thus, a gait belt stands out as the primary item that directly improves safety when lifting patients.