A practical nurse is reinforcing teaching for a client who is non-weight-bearing on the right lower extremity and is learning to ascend a flight of stairs using axillary crutches. Arrange the following actions in the correct chronological sequence from first to last.
- 1Assume a stable tripod stance at the bottom of the stairs with the crutches and the unaffected left leg.
- 2Shift the body weight entirely onto the handgrips of both crutches.
- 3Advance the unaffected left leg upward onto the next step.
- 4Transfer the body weight from the crutches onto the unaffected left leg.
- 5Bring both crutches and the non-weight-bearing right leg up to the step.
Answer
The correct sequence for ascending stairs with crutches while non-weight-bearing is: establish a tripod stance, shift weight to the crutches, step up with the unaffected leg, shift weight to the unaffected leg, and finally bring the crutches and affected leg up.
The correct sequence follows the fundamental principle of ascending stairs with an assistive device: 'up with the good.' The client must first establish a stable tripod base and shift weight to the crutches. This allows the unaffected leg to step up securely. Once the strong leg is on the upper step, the client shifts weight onto it, utilizing its strength to lift the body, the crutches, and the affected leg to the new level.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Assistive Device Mobility: Ascending Stairs with Crutches