The nurse is instructing a patient with a right hip replacement to descend stairs by using axillary crutches.Which should the nurse include in patient teaching?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse instructs the patient to begin in the tripod position and thus shift the body weight to the unaffected leg to maintain balance and a base of support.The patient uses both crutches,one on each side,to descend a stairway to provide a wide base of support and avoid hopping down each step on one foot.The crutches should be held 15 cm (6 inches)laterally to provide a wider base of support.The nurse instructs the patient to position the crutches on the stair below before shifting weight to the crutches and moving the right leg forward.

The Nurse Is Instructing a Patient with a Right Hip