Which statement correctly describes the side order when dressing a resident?

• A. Undress affected side first, dress unaffected side first.
• B. Undress unaffected side first, dress affected side first.
• C. Undress both sides simultaneously.
• D. Dress the head first.

Answer: (B)

When working with a resident who has weakness on one side, the focus is to protect and support that weaker side during dressing. Start by undressing the unaffected side first so you don’t have to move the weaker arm through clothing or risk tugging on it as you remove garments. For dressing, begin with the affected (weaker) side first, guiding the weak arm into the sleeve before dressing the stronger side. This approach minimizes strain and awkward movements of the paralyzed side and helps keep the resident safe and comfortable. Finish by dressing the unaffected side. Dressing the head first or attempting to undress both sides at the same time isn’t aligned with protecting the weaker limb and maintaining control during the process.