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 D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Cucumbers are a good source of hydration due to their high water content, but they are not particularly high in potassium.
Choice B rationale
Corn is a versatile vegetable that provides a good source of fiber, but it is not particularly high in potassium.
Choice C rationale
Asparagus is a nutrient-rich vegetable known for its diuretic properties, but it is not particularly high in potassium.
Choice D rationale
Avocados are a nutrient-dense fruit that is high in healthy fats and also a good source of potassium. They are a great food choice for a client at risk for hypokalemia.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Initiating a cardiac enzyme panel can help determine if the client has had a heart attack. However, this is not the immediate priority. The client’s symptoms suggest a possible cardiac event, which needs to be addressed first. An ECG can provide immediate information, while a cardiac enzyme panel takes longer to return results.
Choice B rationale: Starting intravenous fluid therapy may be necessary depending on the client’s hydration status and overall condition. However, it is not the immediate priority. The client’s symptoms suggest a possible cardiac event, which needs to be addressed first.
Choice C rationale: Providing pain relief medication may be necessary if the client is in pain. However, the client’s primary complaint is chest tightness and difficulty breathing, not pain. Therefore, addressing the potential cardiac issue is the priority.
Choice D rationale: The client’s symptoms of sudden shortness of breath, chest tightness, and anxiety, along with her history of hypertension and diabetes, are concerning for a possible cardiac event. An electrocardiogram (ECG) can provide immediate information about the heart’s electrical activity and help identify if the client is experiencing a heart attack or other cardiac event. This should be the first action taken to quickly identify the cause of the client’s symptoms and initiate appropriate treatment.
Choice E rationale: Performing a comprehensive physical assessment is an important part of nursing care. However, in this situation, the client’s symptoms indicate a need for immediate intervention to address her potential cardiac issue.
Choice F rationale: Monitoring the client’s blood glucose levels is important given her history of diabetes. However, this is not the immediate priority. The client’s symptoms suggest a possible cardiac event, which needs to be addressed first.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.