A nurse is planning care for a client who has left lower extremity weakness and is learning to ambulate with a standard pick-up walker. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?
- ADelegate the evaluation of the client's balance and gait during the initial ambulation to an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP).
- BAdjust the height of the walker so that the client's elbows are fully extended when resting their hands on the grips.
- Instruct the client to advance the walker forward first, step forward with the left leg, and then bring the right leg forward.Cevap
- DTeach the client to take an initial step with the strong right leg first while simultaneously advancing the walker.
Cevap
The correct intervention is to instruct the client to advance the walker forward first, step forward with the weak left leg, and then bring the right leg forward.
When ambulating with a standard walker, the client should first lift and advance the walker about 6 to 8 inches. Next, the client should step forward with the affected (weak) leg so that the upper body and the walker can safely support the body's weight. Finally, the client steps forward with the unaffected (strong) leg. This sequence ensures a wide base of support and maximum stability.
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Assistive Devices and Mobility