A nurse is instructing a client with a right fractured tibia who is non-weight-bearing on how to ascend stairs using axillary crutches. In what order should the nurse teach the client to perform the following actions? Arrange the steps in the correct sequence from first to last.
- 1Position the crutches and unaffected leg in a tripod stance at the base of the stairs.
- 2Place body weight entirely on the crutch handgrips.
- 3Move the unaffected leg up onto the next step.
- 4Shift body weight from the crutches onto the unaffected leg.
- 5Lift the crutches and the affected leg simultaneously to the step.
Answer
The correct sequence for ascending stairs with crutches is: establish a tripod stance, bear weight on the crutches, move the unaffected leg up, shift weight to the unaffected leg, and finally bring the crutches and affected leg up.
When ascending stairs with crutches (non-weight-bearing), the standard nursing principle is 'up with the good, down with the bad'. The client begins in a secure tripod stance and transfers their body weight to the crutches. The strong, unaffected leg steps up first to act as the primary lifter. The client then shifts their weight onto this strong leg, allowing them to safely bring the crutches and the affected, non-weight-bearing leg up to the same step.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Assistive Devices: Crutch Walking on Stairs