When dressing a client with a weak right arm, which sequence is correct?

• A. Dress the left arm first, then the right.
• B. Dress the right arm first by guiding it through the sleeve, then dress the left arm.
• C. Remove clothing from the client and have the client dress themselves.
• D. Dress both arms at once.

Answer: (B)

Dressing the weaker arm first is the correct approach. When a limb is weak, guiding that arm into the sleeve first helps you control and support it, reducing the risk of pulling or stressing the weak side as you complete the clothing. In this case, the right arm is the weak one, so you would dress the right arm first by guiding it through the sleeve, then dress the left arm. This sequence keeps the vulnerable arm safe and comfortable during the dressing process.

Dressing the left arm first would require you to maneuver the right arm later, which can cause unnecessary movement and potential strain on the weak arm. Removing clothing and having the client dress themselves bypasses the necessary support and safety, and trying to dress both arms at once isn’t practical or safe.