What it means
The word charts and exam questions use for walking. Ambulation is the act of walking, and an ambulatory client is one who can walk. Nurses get clients up to walk early after surgery or illness because walking helps the lungs, blood flow, bowels and strength.
For the nurse
Before the first walk, check vital signs and have the client sit on the edge of the bed for a moment, since standing up can make blood pressure drop and cause dizziness. Use a gait belt and walking aids as ordered and stay on the client's weaker side. Helping a stable client walk can be delegated to a UAPyou-ay-pee (said as letters)Unlicensed assistive personnel: trained workers without a nursing license, such as nursing assistants, who help with client care.Full entry .
In a chart
"Ambulated 50 feet in the hallway with a walker and standby assist; tolerated well."
At a glance
| Everyday words | walk |
|---|---|
| Spanish | deambular, caminar |
| Also written | ambulation, ambulating, ambulatory, ambulates, ambulated |
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