Which sequence correctly describes dressing a resident with an affected right arm?

• A. Give client choice of clothing; remove gown from affected arm first, then unaffected arm; dress affected side first, then unaffected; place soiled linens in hamper; Call Light, Bed Locked & Lowest Position, Open Curtain & Wash Hands
• B. Give client choice of clothing; remove gown from unaffected arm first, then affected arm; dress affected side first, then unaffected; place soiled linens in hamper; Call Light, Bed Locked & Lowest Position, Open Curtain & Wash Hands
• C. Remove gown from unaffected arm first; dress unaffected side first; place linens in hamper; Call Light
• D. Dress unaffected side first, then affected; place linens in hamper; Call Light

Answer: (B)

Dressing a resident with a restricted arm focuses on protecting that arm and moving it as little as possible. The gown should be removed from the unaffected arm first, then the affected arm, so you don’t pull on the injured or limited limb. After gowns are removed, dress the affected side first, then the unaffected side. This sequence minimizes movement of the affected arm and helps clothing go on smoothly without snagging or forcing movement of the injured limb. Finishing with safe and hygiene steps—place soiled linens in the hamper, ensure the call light is within reach, keep the bed in the lowest position and locked, maintain privacy with the curtain as required, and wash hands—helps prevent falls, contamination, and privacy breaches.

Choosing a different order would risk pulling on the affected arm or forcing movement of the injured side, and skipping the safety and hygiene steps can create unnecessary hazards or discomfort for the resident.