When dressing a resident with mobility limitations, which starting side is recommended?

When dressing a resident with mobility limitations, which starting side is recommended?

• A. Weaker side
• B. Stronger side
• C. Unchanged side
• D. Dominant side

Answer: (A)

Starting with the weaker side helps protect and assist the limb that has less strength. When a resident has mobility limitations, the weaker arm or side is easier to pull through a sleeve if you start there, while the stronger side remains free to guide and support the garment. This sequence reduces pulling on the affected shoulder, improves control, and makes the dressing smoother and safer. If you began with the stronger side, the weaker arm can get pulled awkwardly through the sleeve and the maneuver becomes harder and less safe.

Starting with the weaker side helps protect and assist the limb that has less strength. When a resident has mobility limitations, the weaker arm or side is easier to pull through a sleeve if you start there, while the stronger side remains free to guide and support the garment. This sequence reduces pulling on the affected shoulder, improves control, and makes the dressing smoother and safer. If you began with the stronger side, the weaker arm can get pulled awkwardly through the sleeve and the maneuver becomes harder and less safe.