Difficulty: Medium

Average Score: 67%

A client has weakness on 1 side and uses a cane. When assisting the client to ambulate, the nurse aide SHOULD:

Rationale

Stand on the strong side slightly behind the client.

When assisting a client with weakness on one side, the nurse aide should position themselves on the strong side to provide optimal support and stability. This positioning allows the aide to effectively assist the client while ensuring safety during ambulation.

A (Stand on the weak side slightly behind the client) YOUR ANSWER

Standing on the weak side may compromise the client's stability and increase the risk of falling. The aide would be less able to provide necessary support if the client loses balance, making this choice inappropriate for safe ambulation.

C (Tell the client to hold the cane on the weak side) YOUR ANSWER

Instructing the client to hold the cane on the weak side is counterproductive, as the cane should be used on the strong side to provide additional support. This placement helps the client maintain balance and leverage while walking, which is essential for safe ambulation.

D (Tell the client to move the strong leg first) YOUR ANSWER

Instructing the client to move the strong leg first does not follow the standard technique for ambulation. The correct method is to move the weak leg and cane together to maintain balance, followed by the strong leg, ensuring a stable and safe gait pattern.

Conclusion

Effective ambulation assistance requires proper positioning and technique to ensure client safety and stability. The nurse aide should stand on the strong side to provide adequate support while helping the client ambulate. Choices A, C, and D misalign with best practices for assisting clients with one-sided weakness and could jeopardize their safety during movement.

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