A nurse is providing discharge education to a client who sustained a right tibial fracture and has a strict non-weight-bearing order for the right lower extremity. The client must learn how to ascend a flight of stairs using axillary crutches. Arrange the following actions in the exact order the client should perform them.
- 1Assume the tripod position at the base of the stairs.
- 2Transfer body weight entirely onto the axillary crutches.
- 3Advance the unaffected left leg up onto the stair tread.
- 4Shift body weight from the crutches onto the unaffected left leg.
- 5Bring the crutches and the affected right leg up to the stair tread.
Answer
The correct sequence is to establish a tripod position, transfer 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.
When teaching a client to ascend stairs with crutches, the nurse should emphasize the clinical principle of 'up with the good.' The client must first establish a stable tripod position and transfer weight to the crutches. This securely anchors the body, allowing the client to lift the unaffected, strong leg up to the next step. Once the unaffected leg is securely planted on the step above, the client shifts their body weight onto that strong leg. The strong leg then provides the necessary power and stability to lift the affected leg and the crutches simultaneously to the same step.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Safe use of assistive devices and body mechanics for stair climbing (axillary crutches)