A nurse is assessing a patient’s ability to use a walking cane.
Which of the following observations would indicate that the patient is using the cane correctly?
The top of the cane is parallel to the patient’s waist.
The patient advances the cane 46 cm (18 in) forward while walking.
The patient holds the cane on the side of their body that is stronger.
The patient moves their stronger leg forward along with the cane.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
While the top of the cane should be parallel to the client’s greater trochanter, this alone does not indicate correct use of the cane.
Choice B rationale
Advancing the cane 46 cm (18 in) forward while walking is too far. To maintain balance, the client should advance the cane about 15-30 cm (6-12 in) at a time.
Choice C rationale
The client should hold the cane on the stronger side of their body to increase support and maintain alignment. This is an indication of correct use.
Choice D rationale
The client should move their weaker leg forward with the cane. This divides the client’s body weight between the cane and the stronger leg.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
When giving a change-of-shift report about a client with pneumonia, the priority piece of information for the nurse to provide is the client’s breath sounds. This is because breath sounds can indicate the severity of the pneumonia and the effectiveness of the treatment. Changes in breath sounds can signal a worsening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
When descending stairs, the crutches and the injured leg should go down first, followed by the good leg31415.
Choice B rationale
Placing crutches 12 inches in front and to the side of each foot is a correct method for using crutches. This provides stability and balance while walking31415.
Choice C rationale
When sitting down, it’s recommended to hold both crutches in one hand on the same side as the injured leg. This allows the other hand to be free to reach for the chair31415.
Choice D rationale
The shoulder rests, or pads, should not be snug against the body. There should be a space of about 1-2 inches between the top of the crutch and the armpit31415.
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