Crutch Teaching: Findings That Show Understanding

Physiologic Needs · Question from the ATI PN Fundamentals 2023 Proctored Exam study set

Correct answers:

• Three-point crutch gait observed
• Client bears weight on the unaffected leg
• During swing-through, the client bears weight on the hand grips

Why this is the answer

Correct crutch technique keeps weight off the affected extremity, distributes weight through the palms/hand grips rather than the axillae (preventing brachial plexus/nerve injury), and demonstrates the proper three-point gait pattern during the swing-through phase.

The bigger concept

Crutch teaching evaluation is about what you observe, not what the client says. Correct technique keeps all weight off the affected leg, carries weight through the hands rather than the axillae (pressure there causes crutch palsy from brachial plexus injury), keeps the crutch pads 2–3 finger widths below the axillae, and uses the gait pattern that matches the weight-bearing order.

Related Physiologic Needs practice questions

• Bolus Enteral Feeding: Formula Temperature
• Opioid Use and the Risk of Constipation
• Instilling Ear Drops in an Adult: Dropper Position
• Expected Lab Finding After Vomiting and Diarrhea
• Giving Oral Medications to a Client With Dysphagia

Keep studying

← Back to the PN Fundamentals study guide hub · Practice all 70 questions free in the quiz engine