Definitions
Ambulate
to walk
What are three assistive devices?
Cane, walker, crutches
Which side of the body should a person hold their cane?
The strong side.
On which side should the nursing assistant stand on when assisting a patient with the gait?
The weaker side
Walking begins with...
the ankle in dorsiflexion
Gait
the way in which a person walks
Purpose of assistive devices.
What should your patient be wearing when being transferred?
Shoes or non-slip socks
What should the nursing assistant note when assessing a patient's gait?
Endurance, balance, and strength
When walking you should encourage the patients to...
use the handrail
Gait training
teaching a patient to walk
Which assistive devices can be ordered for a PWB?
A walker or crutches.
True or False: A walker can be used as a transfer device?
False! A walker is not a transfer device and should not be used as one.
Which side should the nursing assistant stand on when assisting a patient with their walker?
The weak side
If you are unsure of the patient's endurance or balance, you should...
ask another nursing assistant to follow behind with a wheelchair
Orthopedic
pertaining to the musculoskeletal system
Which crutch requires good balance and two strong arms?
Standard crutches
When gait training what kind of hand should you have?
An underhand grab
What should the nursing assistant document when assessing a patient's gait?
Their distance and tolerance of the procedure
Stop ambulation immediately if the patient shows signs of...
illness, pain, extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, or anxiety. Notify the nurse.
Prosthesis
artificial limb
What should you keep weight off of when using a crutch?
Brachial plexus
When assisting a patient, a healthcare worker should always use good...?
Body mechanics
True or False: Nursing assistants should observe if the patient is using their assistive device correctly.
True!
If the patient is not motivated, what should you do?
Set a goal!