Which side should you dress first for a patient with weakness on one side?

• A. Dress strong side first
• B. Dress weak side first
• C. Dress both sides at once
• D. Do not dress the patient

Answer: (B)

When a patient has weakness on one side, dress the weaker side first. This keeps the arm or leg with less strength under control while you guide it into the garment, and it leaves the stronger side ready to assist and maintain balance. For example, put the weak arm into the shirt sleeve first, then the other arm; for pants, put the weak leg into a pant leg first, then pull up the strong leg. This sequence reduces strain on the weakened side and lowers the risk of falls or clothing snagging. Dressing the strong side first or attempting to dress both sides at once makes the task harder and less safe, and not dressing the patient is inappropriate.