A nurse is providing teaching about the use of crutches using a three-point gait to a client who has a tibia fracture.
Which of the following actions by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?
Moving both crutches with the stronger leg forward first.
Supporting his body weight while leaning on the axillary crutch pads
Stepping with his affected leg first when going up stairs
Positioning both hands on the grips with his elbows slightly flexed.
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is Choice d. Positioning both hands on the grips with his elbows slightly flexed.
Choice A rationale:
- Moving both crutches with the stronger leg forward first is incorrect for a three-point gait. This describes a two-point gait, which is used when a client can bear weight on both legs. In a three-point gait, the client bears weight on the unaffected leg and the crutches, not the stronger leg.
- This action would put excessive weight on the affected leg and could potentially compromise healing or cause further injury.
Choice B rationale:
- Supporting his body weight while leaning on the axillary crutch pads is also incorrect. This can lead to nerve damage in the armpits and should be avoided.
- The weight should be distributed through the hands and wrists, not the armpits.
Choice C rationale:
- Stepping with his affected leg first when going up stairs is incorrect and potentially dangerous. The client should lead with the stronger leg when going up stairs to maintain balance and control.
Choice D rationale:
- Positioning both hands on the grips with his elbows slightly flexed is the correct action for using crutches with a three-point gait. This allows for proper weight distribution, balance, and control of the crutches.
- It also helps to prevent fatigue and strain in the arms and shoulders.
Key points to remember about the three-point gait:
- Weight is borne on the unaffected leg and the crutches, not the affected leg.
- The crutches and the unaffected leg move forward together, followed by the affected leg.
- The client should look ahead, not down at their feet.
- The client should take small, even steps.
- The client should rest as needed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This instruction will help the client to prevent venous stasis and thrombosis, which are common postoperative complications. Range-of-motion exercises promote blood circulation and prevent muscle atrophy and contractures.
Choice B. “Use an incentive spirometer every 4 hours.” is wrong because it is not related to promoting circulation, but rather to improving lung expansion and preventing atelectasis and pneumonia. Using an incentive spirometer is also important for postoperative clients, but it does not address the question.
Choice C. “Remain on bed rest for 24 hours following the procedure.” is wrong because it is the opposite of promoting circulation.
Bed rest increases the risk of venous stasis, thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. Postoperative clients should be encouraged to ambulate as soon as possible, unless contraindicated.
Choice D. “Place a pillow under your knees while in bed.” is wrong because it also impairs circulation and increases the risk of thrombosis.
Placing a pillow under the knees can cause pressure on the popliteal veins and reduce blood flow. Postoperative clients should avoid this position and keep their legs in a neutral or slightly elevated position.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is a sign of preeclampsia, a serious complication of pregnancy that can cause high blood pressure, proteinuria, and seizures.
Preeclampsia can affect the placenta, the kidneys, the liver, and the brain of the mother and the fetus. It requires immediate medical attention and may lead to early delivery.
Choice A, bleeding gums, is wrong because it is a common occurrence during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that increase blood flow to the gums. It is not a cause for concern unless it is excessive or accompanied by other symptoms.
Choice B, urinary frequency, is wrong because it is also a normal finding during pregnancy due to the growing uterus putting pressure on the bladder. It is not a sign of infection or kidney problems unless it is associated with pain, burning, or blood in the urine.
Choice D, faintness upon rising, is wrong because it is usually caused by orthostatic hypotension, a drop in blood pressure when changing positions.
This can happen during pregnancy due to the dilation of blood vessels and the increased blood volume. It can be prevented by rising slowly, drinking enough fluids, and avoiding prolonged standing.
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