Quiz: Assisting a Patient With Ambulation Using a Cane

The client has decreased strength in the left leg. How should the nurse instruct the client to hold a cane for assistance?

on the right side

A client who is recovering from surgery is beginning to ambulate. This client is strong enough to walk without assistance but has poor balance. Which type of mobility aid would be most appropriate for this client?

A cane with four prongs on the end (quad cane)

How should the nurse teach the client who is ambulating with a cane?

Instruct the client to advance the cane 4 to 12 in (10 to 30 cm) and then, while supporting weight on the stronger leg and the cane, advance the weaker foot forward, parallel with the cane.

The nurse is teaching proper cane use to a client who has had ankle surgery. The client has been cleared to begin bearing weight on the affected leg. What outcome would be unexpected?

The client reports increased strength in the weaker leg.

What should the nurse teach the client about climbing stairs with a cane?

The client should advance the stronger leg up the stair first, followed by the cane and weaker leg.