The nurse is teaching a patient how to use a cane. Which information will the nurse include in the teaching session?
A) Place the cane at the top of the hip bone.
B) Place the cane on the stronger side of the body.
C) Place the cane in front of the body and then move the good leg.
D) Place the cane 10 to 15 inches in front of the body when walking.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Have the patient keep the cane on the stronger side of the body. A person's cane length is equal to the distance between the greater trochanter and the floor. The cane should be moved first and then the weaker leg. For maximum support when walking, the patient places the cane forward 15 to 25 cm (6 to 10 inches), keeping body weight on both legs. The weaker leg is then moved forward to the cane, so body weight is divided between the cane and the stronger leg.

The Nurse Is Teaching a Patient How to Use a Cane