Final answer:
Ambulating refers to the ability of a resident to walk independently. The question differentiates ambulating from other terms like abduction and adduction, which pertain to specific directional movements of limbs.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a resident can walk, he or she is A) Ambulating. The term 'ambulating' refers to the ability to walk from place to place independently with or without assistance. This term is distinguished from other movements such as abduction, which is when a bone moves away from the midline of the body, or adduction, which is the movement toward the midline. It's important for medical professionals to observe how a resident walk as it can indicate their balance and coordination, potentially pointing to conditions like ataxia.