The nurse is demonstrating three point gait crutch walking to an older adult client who broke a foot while playing soccer with the grandchildren. Which behavior Indicates that the client understands proper crutch walking?
A.
Progresses to foot touchdown and weight bearing of affected leg.
B.
Practices bicep and triceps isometric exercises.
C.
Inspects crutches to ensure rubber tips are intact.
D.
Bears body weight on the palms of hands during the crutch gait.
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is:
D. Bears body weight on the palms of hands during the crutch gait.
Explanation:
The three-point gait is a common technique used in crutch walking, especially for individuals with injuries to one lower extremity, like a broken foot. This gait pattern is designed to provide balance and support while allowing the client to move efficiently.
In the three-point gait, the client uses both crutches to bear their weight while moving their injured leg and then follows with their uninjured leg. The correct sequence involves the client placing both crutches forward, shifting weight onto the crutches, and then bringing the uninjured leg forward. The injured leg remains non-weight bearing during this process.
The behavior indicated by option D, bearing body weight on the palms of the hands during crutch gait, demonstrates an understanding of proper crutch walking. This is crucial because the crutches are meant to bear the client’s weight, relieving pressure from the injured leg. Proper weight distribution on the crutches prevents excess strain on the hands and wrists and helps maintain balance.
Let’s review why the other options are incorrect:
- A. Progresses to foot touchdown and weight bearing of affected leg. This is not appropriate for the three-point gait when the affected leg should remain non-weight bearing. This option describes a technique more suited for a different type of gait, such as a four-point gait or a modified weight-bearing strategy.
- B. Practices bicep and triceps isometric exercises. While strengthening exercises are beneficial, they are not directly related to the understanding or execution of the three-point gait. This option does not demonstrate comprehension of crutch walking techniques.
- C. Inspects crutches to ensure rubber tips are intact. Although this is a good practice for safety and maintaining equipment, it does not indicate the client’s understanding of how to perform the three-point gait.
In summary, option D reflects the client’s correct application of the three-point gait by using the crutches to support their weight, thus demonstrating an understanding of the proper technique for crutch walking.