Question

a nurse is reinforcing teaching about using crutches with a client who has a fractured left ankle. which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the instructions?

• \ill place my weight on the crutch pads at my armpits.\
• \ill wear my rubber - sole shoes when i am using my crutches.\
• \ill bend my elbows to about 25 degrees when i walk with my crutches.\
• \when i go down stairs, i will put my crutches and my right leg on the lower step first.\

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option based on crutch - use principles:

1. For the option "I'll place my weight on the crutch pads at my armpits": Weight should be on the hands (grip) and crutch tips, not armpits (to avoid nerve damage), so this is incorrect.
2. For the option "I'll wear my smooth - soled shoes when I am using my crutches": Smooth - soled shoes increase fall risk; non - slip shoes are recommended, so this is incorrect.
3. For the option "I'll bend my elbows to about 25 degrees when I walk with my crutches": The proper elbow flexion for crutch use is around 20 - 30 degrees, so this statement shows understanding.
4. For the option "When I go down stairs, I will put my crutches and my right leg on the lower step first": When going down stairs, the correct technique is to place the crutches and the injured (left) leg on the lower step first, so this is incorrect.

Answer:

The option "I'll bend my elbows to about 25 degrees when I walk with my crutches" (the third option in the list of client statements)