A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has crutches regarding the use of the three-point gait.
Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
Bear weight on the unaffected leg.
Keep the crutches at the level of the axillae.
Stand with the crutch tips against the feet.
Hold the arms straight when walking.
The Correct Answer is A
This gait pattern is used when one of the lower extremities is unable to fully bear weight due to fracture, amputation, joint replacement etc12 The client should advance both crutches and the affected leg as one unit, and then bring the unaffected leg forward to the crutches as the second unit
Choice B is wrong because keeping the crutches at the level of the axillae can cause nerve damage and reduce circulation.
The crutches should be positioned with 2 fingers of distance between the axilla and the axilla pad with the elbow flexed between 20-30 degrees
Choice C is wrong because standing with the crutch tips against the feet can cause instability and increase the risk of falling.
The crutch tips should be placed about 15 cm (6 inches) in front of and 15 cm to the side of each foot
Choice D is wrong because holding the arms straight when walking can cause fatigue and strain on the shoulders and wrists.
The client should keep a slight bend in the elbows when walking with crutches
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is D. Using two gloved fingers to open the client’s mouth for cleaning.
Choice A rationale:
Lowering the side rail on the side of the bed where the AP will stand is necessary for safe access to the client. However, the AP should ensure the opposite side rail is up to prevent the client from falling.
Choice B rationale:
Using an oral care sponge swab moistened with cool water is an appropriate method for cleaning the mouth of an unconscious client. It helps maintain oral hygiene and comfort.
Choice C rationale:
Wearing clean gloves is essential for infection control and is a standard practice when performing mouth care to protect both the client and the caregiver.
Choice D rationale:
Using two gloved fingers to open the client’s mouth is not recommended as it can cause injury to the caregiver if the client bites down reflexively. Instead, a padded tongue blade should be used to gently open the mouth.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
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