Crutch Safety Teaching Strategies

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

What is the correct position of the handgrips when using crutches?

Not positioned to support the body weight
Positioned so that the axillae support the body weight
Positioned with the elbows fully extended
Positioned with the elbows slightly flexed (correct)

Why is it important to ensure two points of support when walking?

To minimize the risk of underlies nerves injury
To reduce pressure on the axillae
To ensure stability and balance while walking (correct)
To avoid partial paralysis of the arm

What is the recommended distance between the crutch pad and the patient's axilla?

2 inches (correct)
6 inches
4 inches
1 inch

How can incorrect positioning of the handgrips on crutches affect the patient?

It increases the risk of underlies nerves injury (B) Signup and view all the answers

What should be positioned 2 inches lateral and 4 to 6 inches anterior to the front of the patient's shoes when using crutches?

The crutch pads (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to avoid placing body weight on the axillae when using crutches?

To avoid injury to underlies nerves (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of having two points of support when using crutches?

To distribute body weight evenly (A) Signup and view all the answers

How can improper crutch placement affect the patient's nerves?

It may cause nerve compression and injury (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended elbow flexion angle when using crutches?

$15-30°$ (C) Signup and view all the answers

What should be verified with a goniometer when using crutches?

Elbow flexion angle (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of maintaining a distance between crutch pad and axilla?

To prevent underlies nerve injury (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is important about supporting weight by the handgrips when using crutches?

Supporting weight should be done with slightly flexed elbows (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended distance to position the crutch tips laterally to the side and in front of the patient's feet for the tripod position?

15 cm laterally and 15 cm in front (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the quad cane?

To provide more support for patients with unilateral weakness (A) Signup and view all the answers

Where should the handle of the cane be positioned?

At the level of the wrist crease (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the tripod position?

To aid in transferring weight when sitting in a chair (B) Signup and view all the answers

What determines the height adjustment of crutch handgrips?

The angle of elbow flexion (A) Signup and view all the answers

When using a straight cane, where should the patient place it for maximum support when walking?

Forward 15 to 25 cm (D) Signup and view all the answers

What should the patient be taught about using crutches?

To measure the crutches specifically for their body (B) Signup and view all the answers

How often should the rubber tips on the crutches be inspected?

Weekly (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for the crutch tips to remain dry?

To decrease the risk of slipping (D) Signup and view all the answers

What should the patient do if the crutch tips become wet?

Use paper or cloth towels to dry them (B) Signup and view all the answers

What happens if there are cracks in a wooden crutch?

It decreases its ability to support weight (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential for the patient to have spare crutches available?

To have a backup in case of damage or loss (A) Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with worn rubber tips on the crutches?

Replace them with new tips (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why should the patient not use anyone else's crutches?

Because crutches are measured specifically for each patient (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the danger of pressure on the axillae when using axillary crutches?

Can cause nerve damage (C) Signup and view all the answers

What happens if there are bends in aluminum crutches?

It alters body alignment (A) Signup and view all the answers

What can a patient do if their crutch tips become wet?

Use paper or cloth towels to dry them (C) Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if a wooden crutch has cracks?

It needs repair or replacement (D) Signup and view all the answers