When undressing a resident, which sequence describes proper technique?

• A. Undress the weak side first.
• B. Check the care plan to determine whether undressing should be in a supine or sitting position; undress the strong side first; use bath blanket to maintain dignity; for blouse: unfasten buttons and slide the shirt off the strong arm first; for pants: slide underwear and pants down starting with the strong side.
• C. Remove clothes from the weak side first.
• D. Undress the strong side first.

Answer: (B)

When undressing a resident, safety and dignity come from following the care plan and starting with the stronger side. Checking the plan tells you whether the resident should be undressed while lying down or sitting, and any specific steps to protect a weaker side or joints. Beginning with the strong side makes the process smoother and safer: you have better control of the garment, you can guide it off the body without pulling on a weaker, more fragile limb, and you reduce the risk of causing discomfort or injury.

For a blouse, unfasten the buttons and slide the shirt off the arm on the strong side first, then remove from the weaker side. This keeps the weaker side supported and minimizes strain, since you’re lifting and maneuvering the garment away from the body through the stronger limb. For pants, slide the underwear and pants down starting with the strong side. By addressing the strong side first, you can carefully release the garment and lower it without forcing the weaker leg to move awkwardly, which helps maintain alignment and privacy throughout the process. Using a bath blanket to preserve dignity while you work is a simple, important touch that reduces exposure while you change the clothing.