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Care and Maintenance of Ambulatory Aids - NURS1202_Nursing Foundations 1-25JANMNFS1

Care and Maintenance of Ambulatory Aids

Healthcare professionals assess clients to recommend appropriate ambulatory aids based on individual needs, mobility levels, and physical abilities. Setting initial measurements tailored to the client’s physique is crucial for ensuring optimal use and preventing injury. Educating healthcare aides on proper care techniques for these aids is essential, as they need to recognize signs of wear or the need for repair promptly. Routine safety and maintenance checks are vital for ensuring the functionality, safety, and longevity of these devices.

Canes

Purpose: Provide support and enhance balance for clients who are able to bear weight but exhibit weakness or instability on one side of their body.

Types of Canes:

  • Wooden Cane: Traditional style, often aesthetically pleasing but less adjustable.

  • Adjustable Cane: Height can be modified to fit the user’s height, improving comfort and effectiveness.

  • Tripod Cane: Has three prongs for added stability, ideal for those needing significant support.

  • Quad Cane: Features a wide base with four feet for maximum support, recommended for users with severe balance issues.

Maintenance Tips:

  • Height Adjustment: Should be adjusted to align with the wrist crease when the arms are extended to ensure proper posture and balance.

  • Rubber Tips: Regularly check for cracks, signs of excessive wear, or deterioration; damaged tips should be reported to a nurse immediately to prevent slips or falls.

  • Environmental Considerations: In icy conditions, use ice-gripper tips for added traction; ensure the cane tip is dry to prevent slipping.

  • Cleaning: Clean with mild soapy water and avoid harsh solvents that may degrade materials.

Walkers

Purpose: Provide greater support than canes due to a wider base, suitable for clients who require more assistance while walking.

Types of Walkers:

  • Standard Walker: Basic walker with four legs, providing stability.

  • Two-wheeled Walker: Equipped with wheels in the front for easier movement while still offering stability.

  • Four-wheeled Walker: Has wheels on all legs, often includes hand brakes for added security, allowing for more independence for users.

Maintenance Tips:

  • Height Adjustment: Similar to canes, should be adjusted to the wrist crease when arms are extended.

  • Leg Leveling: Ensure all legs are equal in height to prevent falls; any discrepancies should be addressed immediately.

  • Rubber Tips: Check regularly for damage; report any issues to maintain safety.

  • Brakes: Regularly test to ensure functionality on four-wheeled walkers to prevent accidents.

  • Transport Protocol: Never transport clients on the seat of four-wheeled walkers; they are not designed for carrying loads.

  • Regular Checks: Inspect screws and knobs for tightness; clean with mild soapy water, ensuring no components are loose or damaged.

Crutches

Purpose: Provide support and mobility assistance for clients who need extra help while walking due to injuries or surgeries.

Maintenance Tips:

  • Height Adjustment: Should be set so that the top of the crutch is about 2 inches below the axilla when standing to reduce pressure.

  • Rubber Tips: Inspect for cracks and wear; reporting any damage is crucial for safety.

  • Weight Distribution: Educate users to focus on utilizing their arms and hands, rather than their armpits, to prevent nerve damage and discomfort.

  • Safety Checks: Ensure that the client's path is clear of hazards; make sure handgrips and screws are secure before use.

  • Environmental Considerations: Utilize ice-gripper tips when on icy surfaces to prevent falls.

Wheelchairs

Purpose: Provide mobility assistance to clients who cannot walk or easily tire out.

Maintenance Tips:

  • General Inspection: Regularly check for sharp edges, cracks, and any loose hardware that could cause injury.

  • Safety Belts: Inspect safety belts for any signs of fraying or tears to ensure safety during use.

  • Wheel Condition: Monitor for excessive wear on wheels that could impair mobility.

  • Repair Reporting: Immediately notify nursing staff about any missing hardware or repairs needed; do not use the wheelchair until all issues have been resolved to ensure client safety.

Braces, Splints, or Prosthetics

Purpose: Support or align specific body parts that are weak or injured; prosthetics replace natural body parts lost due to injury or medical conditions.

Maintenance Tips:

  • Inspection: Regular checks for wear, damage, or rough edges are necessary; any issues should be reported to nursing staff for treatment.

  • Cleaning: Wipe the device down with mild soapy water to remove dirt and bacteria; dry thoroughly; remove before bathing to prevent warping or damage.

Transfer Belt

Purpose: Assist weak or unsteady clients in standing, walking, or transferring safely from one location to another.

Maintenance Tips:

  • Inspection: Regularly check for wear, fraying, and verify that functioning buckles are secure; do not use if the belt is damaged.

  • Cleaning: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and drying to ensure hygiene without damaging the material.