Ambulatory Aids Flashcards

Flashcards about ambulatory aids, including canes, walkers, crutches, and prosthetic limbs. Also includes gerontologic considerations for mobility.

What is Quadriceps setting?

Isometric exercise where the client alternately tenses and relaxes the quadriceps muscles.

What is Gluteal setting?

Isometric exercise where the client contracts and relaxes the gluteal muscles to improve their strength and tone.

What are examples of upper arm strengthening exercises?

Flexion and extension of the arms and wrists; raising and lowering weights; squeezing a ball or spring grip; modified hand push-ups in bed.

What is the purpose of dangling?

Normalizes blood pressure.

What is the purpose of using a tilt table?

Helps clients adjust to being upright and bearing weight on their feet.

What is the purpose of a walking (gait) belt?

Provides the nurse a secure grip to prevent injury while ambulating.

What is the purpose of parallel bars (handrails)?

Provide practice in ambulating.

What are the types of canes?

Standard, T-handle, and quad canes.

For whom is a walker most suitable?

Clients who require considerable support and assistance with balance.

What are the types of crutches?

Axillary, forearm, and platform crutches.

What are the crutch-walking gaits?

Four-point gait, three-point gait, two-point gait, and swing-through gait.

Which ambulatory aid is used mostly by clients who are diagnosed with arthritis of the hands or wrists?

Platform crutches

Why are platform crutches used by clients who have arthritis of the hands or wrists?

The use of crutches requires a great deal of upper arm strength; hence, platform crutches are used by clients who have arthritis of the hands or wrists because weight is placed upon forearms.

What is a temporary prosthetic limb called?

Immediate postoperative prosthesis (IPOP)

What are the conditions that need to occur before construction of a permanent prosthesis is delayed?

Wound has healed and Stump size is relatively stable

What components are included in a below-the-knee (BK) prosthesis?

Socket, shank, and ankle/foot system.

What components are included in an above-the-knee (AK) prosthesis?

Below-the-knee components plus a knee system.

What is important to older adults, facilitated by mobility?

Maintaining independence

What does functional ability involve?

Mobility and adaptations to compensate for changes associated with aging or disease processes

What physical changes occur as a person ages, which can alter the center of gravity and may increase fall risk?

Flexion of the spine, which can alter the center of gravity and may increase fall risk. Vascular changes may lead to numbness and a decreased sensory ability to perceive contact with the ground, which can also change a person’s gait.

What modifications can be done to homes to improve safety

Rearrange homes so all necessary furnishings are on one level. Ensure adequate lighting without laying electric cords in passageways. Elevate toilet seats; install grab bars