A client with osteoarthritis of the hips and knees has received instructions on how to use a walker for ambulation.
Which behavior observed by the nurse indicates the client understands the instructions?
The client uses the walker to get up from the chair and looks down at his feet to prevent falling.
The client bears weight on both feet when moving the walker ahead and steps with the weaker leg first.
The client places her full weight on the walker with her arms while taking steps to prevent pressure on her lower extremity joints.
The client leans forward at a 60-degree angle while stepping into the walker but looks ahead at where he is going.
The Correct Answer is B
The client bears weight on both feet when moving the walker ahead and steps with the weaker leg first. This is the proper way to use a walker for ambulation, as it provides stability and reduces stress on the affected joints.
Choice A is wrong because the client should not look down at his feet to prevent falling, but rather look ahead at where he is going. Looking down can cause neck strain and loss of balance.
Choice C is wrong because the client should not place her full weight on the walker with her arms while taking steps, as this can cause upper extremity fatigue and injury. The client should use the walker as a support, not a crutch.
Choice D is wrong because the client should not lean forward at a 60-degree angle while stepping into the walker, as this can cause back pain and poor posture. The client should stand upright and move the walker forward about one step’s length at a time.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is because offering fluids that the client likes and in small amounts can help increase the client’s fluid intake and prevent dehydration. According to, some other nursing measures that can help improve the client’s nutritional intake are:
- Encouraging favorite foods from home, when possible.
- Providing frequent oral hygiene.
- Providing a pleasant environment during mealtime.
- Providing assistance with eating, if needed.
Choice A is wrong because placing a freshwater pitcher on the bedside table may not be enough to motivate the client to drink more fluids, especially if the client does not like plain water or has difficulty reaching for the pitcher.
Choice C is wrong because explaining the problems of inadequate intake may not be effective in changing the client’s behavior, and may even cause anxiety or resentment.
Choice D is wrong because stressing the importance of drinking fluids may also be ineffective or counterproductive, as it may sound like nagging or lecturing to the client.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A heart murmur is a priority assessment for a toddler who is diagnosed with fetal alcohol syndrome because it may indicate a congenital heart defect, which can affect the child’s growth, development and oxygenation. According to the health search results, fetal alcohol syndrome can cause heart and kidney problems, among other complications.
Choice A is wrong because small head size is a common feature of fetal alcohol syndrome, but it is not a priority assessment. It indicates that the child has microcephaly, which is associated with intellectual and learning disabilities.
Choice B is wrong because poor coordination is another common feature of fetal alcohol syndrome, but it is not a priority assessment. It indicates that the child has problems with motor skills and balance.
Choice C is wrong because speech and language delays are also common features of fetal alcohol syndrome, but they are not a priority assessment. They indicate that the child has problems with communication and social skills.
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