A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who will be using a cane to maintain mobility at home following a left knee arthroplasty. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the safe use of a cane?
"I'll use the cane to support my body weight.".
"I will put the cane next to my right leg when I walk.".
"My partner is bringing in a wooden cane we have at home.".
"I will move my right leg forward first.".
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Using the cane to support body weight is not the correct technique. The purpose of a cane is to provide balance and support, not to bear the entire body weight. Placing the entire body weight on the cane can lead to instability and falls.
Choice B rationale:
Placing the cane next to the unaffected leg (right leg in this case) is the correct technique. This positioning provides additional support and stability on the side opposite to the affected leg. This helps in maintaining balance and reducing the risk of falling.
Choice C rationale:
The type of cane is not as relevant as using it correctly. The material of the cane doesn't impact the client's understanding of how to use it safely. While using a wooden cane might be acceptable, the material itself is not an indication of the client's understanding of safe cane use.
Choice D rationale:
Moving the right leg forward first is not the correct technique for using a cane. The correct foot to move forward first is the affected leg, in this case, the left leg. This allows the client to maintain a stable base of support while moving.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
1 cup of shredded lettuce is low in potassium and is not the best source of potassium for a client with heart failure. While vegetables like lettuce are generally healthy, they do not provide a significant amount of potassium.
Choice B rationale:
1 cup of cantaloupe is the best source of potassium among the given options. Cantaloupe is a fruit that contains a moderate amount of potassium. Including this fruit in the client's diet can help maintain a balanced potassium level, which is important for heart health.

Choice C rationale:
1 oz of tuna is a source of protein but is not particularly rich in potassium. While protein intake is important for overall health, other choices on the list provide more potassium, which is specifically needed for clients with heart failure.
Choice D rationale:
1 cup of raspberries is a good source of fiber and antioxidants, but it is not as rich in potassium as cantaloupe. While raspberries can be a healthy addition to the diet, they are not the best choice for addressing potassium needs in this scenario.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice D.
Choice A rationale: Ambulation assistance is expected in rehabilitation. It reflects motor recovery needs but does not pose an immediate safety or health risk requiring urgent referral.
Choice B rationale: Difficulty using utensils indicates fine motor deficits. While important for occupational therapy, it’s not a priority compared to airway protection concerns.
Choice C rationale: Expressive aphasia affects communication but does not compromise physical safety or airway integrity. Speech therapy is appropriate but not urgent.
Choice D rationale: Coughing after drinking signals aspiration risk. This can lead to pneumonia or airway obstruction, requiring immediate referral to speech-language pathology for swallow evaluation.
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