Question

A nurse is observing a client who has left sided weakness and is using a quad cane to ambulate. Which of the following should indicate the need for further teaching? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY

a. the cane measures to the level of the left hip

b. the cane is held on the left side

c. the client moves the left leg to where the cane is positioned

d. the client moves the cane forward prior to take a step\

e. the cane is held on the strong side of the body

Answer 1

Correct answers applicable here are:

b. the cane is held on the left side

d. the client moves the cane forward prior to take a step

The above two actions are not according to the recommended use of the quad cane, hence indicate the need for further teaching to the client.

The top of the handle of the cane should be at waist/hip level and the client’s elbow at 90 degrees. Client must position the cane on the opposite side (right side) of the affected part of the body and in tandem with it so as to simulate normal gait, increase balance and aid in weight distribution. The cane should be held close to the body with the tip of the cane being place approximately 2 inches in front and 6 inches to the side of the left leg.

Steps for proper use of the cane:

• The user should balance body weight on the strong or unaffected foot.
• Then move the cane and the weak or affected foot forward in at the same time, keeping the cane close to the body to prevent leaning to the side.
• Finally, the body weight should be transferred forward to the cane and move the unaffected leg forward