Funds: Ch. 27 (Assistive devices)

A nurse is teaching a patient how to use a standard walker. Which action indicates the patient needs more instruction?

• The patient moves the walker forward before stepping.

• The patient steps into the walker with both feet.

• The patient uses the walker to rise from a chair.

• The patient checks that the walker legs are level before use.

Answer explanation

Walkers should not be used to pull oneself up from a chair as it may tip. The patient should push from the chair itself for safety.

What is a priority nursing action when a patient using crutches begins to fall?

• Attempt to lift the patient by the armpits.

• Grab both crutches to steady the patient.

• Allow the patient to fall freely to avoid injury to self.

• Ease the patient to the floor while protecting their head.

Answer explanation

The safest action is to protect the patient’s head and ease them to the floor to prevent injury, following fall precautions.

A patient with a right leg injury is learning to use a cane. Which instruction is most appropriate?

• Hold the cane in the left hand and move it with the right leg.

• Hold the cane in the right hand and move it with the right leg.

• Hold the cane in either hand and swing it forward first.

• Hold the cane on the same side as the injury.

Answer explanation

The cane should be used on the unaffected (stronger) side and moved forward at the same time as the affected leg for stability.

A nurse observes a patient using crutches with the swing-through gait. Which condition best indicates the use of this gait?

• Partial weight-bearing on one leg.

• Weight-bearing on both legs equally.

• Non-weight bearing on both legs.

• Full weight-bearing on the injured leg.

Answer explanation

A swing-through gait is appropriate when both legs are non-weight bearing, requiring the patient to move both feet past the crutches simultaneously

Which of the following are characteristics of a two-point crutch gait?

• Both crutches and both legs move together.

• Each crutch is moved with the opposite leg.

• Crutches are advanced, followed by both legs.

• The patient swings both legs forward past the crutches.

Answer explanation

The two-point gait mimics natural walking by moving one crutch and the opposite leg at the same time.

Which are correct practices related to assistive devices? (Select all that apply)

• Use two staff members when using a mechanical lift.

• Stand inside the walker frame while using it.

• Hold crutches tightly against the axilla.

• Use a gait belt for patients who can bear weight.

• Explain the transfer process to the patient beforehand.

Answer explanation

Proper use of assistive devices involves team safety (A), patient education (E), and tools like gait belts (D). Standing inside a walker or resting crutches in the axilla is unsafe.

Which action demonstrates correct technique when assisting a patient to stand using a walker?

• Instruct the patient to push up from the walker handles.

• Stand behind the patient and pull them up with the gait belt.

• Have the patient use the bed rails to pull themselves up.

• Instruct the patient to push up from the bed and grasp the walker after standing.

A patient with arthritis is prescribed a cane. Which type of cane offers the most support?

• Standard single-point cane

• Adjustable folding cane

• Quad cane with a wide base

• Tripod cane

Answer explanation

A quad cane with a wide base offers greater stability for patients with significant weakness or balance issues.

What is the purpose of using a rolling walker instead of a standard walker?

• It allows for greater upper-body strengthening.

• It is best for patients who require frequent rest breaks.

• It is more appropriate for patients with limited arm strength.

• It encourages patients to place weight on their arms.

Answer explanation

Rolling walkers are ideal for patients who cannot lift a walker due to weakness or fatigue. They require less effort to move.

Which patient behavior indicates an understanding of walker safety?

• "I will lift the walker and place it forward before stepping into it."

• "I can lean all my weight on the walker for stability."

• "I will use the walker to help pull myself up from the bed."

• "I should keep my feet behind the walker while stepping forward."