Assisting with Ambulation

The main purpose of an assistive device in physical therapy is to:

• Strengthen the upper body muscles

• Increase a patient’s base of support and stability

• Replace lower limb function completely

• Improve cardiovascular endurance

Which of the following patients would most likely require a walker?

• A patient with good balance but mild dizziness

• A patient with severe bilateral leg weakness

• A patient recovering from shoulder surgery

• A patient with one weak leg but good upper-body strength

The proper height of a cane should allow the elbow to flex approximately:

• 10–15°

• 20–30°

• 35–45°

• 0–10°

In a three-point gait, which sequence is correct?

• Right crutch + left foot → left crutch + right foot

• Both crutches + affected leg → unaffected leg

• Both crutches → unaffected leg → affected leg

• Left foot + right crutch → right foot + left crutch

The swing-to gait differs from the swing-through gait because:

• The feet move past the crutches in swing-to

• The feet stop even with the crutches in swing-to

• Swing-to is only used for canes

• Swing-through requires no upper-body strength

When fitting axillary crutches, there should be approximately how much space between the crutch pad and the axilla?

• 1 inch

• 2 inches

• 2-3 finger widths

• 6 inches

Which of the following is the best cue for a patient using a walker?

• Move the walker first, then step in.

• Lift the walker high before stepping.

• Step past the walker each time.

• Walk as fast as you can to stay balanced.

What should the aide do if the patient reports dizziness during ambulation?

• Encourage the patient to continue walking slowly

• Release the gait belt and step back

• Stop ambulation immediately and assist to a chair or wheelchair

Which of the following would be considered a hazardous assistive device?

• Cane tip is clean and intact

• Walker grips are secure and padded

• Crutch tips are worn and uneven

• Wheelchair brakes engage fully

What is the primary reason a PT Aide cleans and inspects assistive devices after each use?

• To reduce wear on the equipment

• To prepare devices for billing inventory

• To prevent infection and ensure patient safety

• To avoid extra paperwork