Mobility: Ambulation Flashcards
(23 cards)
What does ambulate mean?
To walk.
What are common injuries that can affect ambulation?
- Stroke
- Postpolio syndrome
- Huntington’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Arthritis
- Amputation
- Orthopedic issues
What is evaluated when assessing ambulation?
- Tolerance of movement in bed
- Joint range of motion
- Ability to participate in active exercise
- Ability to be transferred with minimal assistance
- Ability to stand and bear weight
- Strength, balance, and endurance
- Mental state
- Ability to walk alone
What is a goniometer used for?
To measure joint flexibility.
What is dorsiflexion?
Toes pulled towards the shin.
What should a care plan include regarding patient ambulation?
The patient’s ability to ambulate safely and assist during ambulation.
True or False: Patients should be rushed when ambulating.
False.
What are some guidelines for safe ambulation?
- Encourage use of handrails
- Stand on the patient’s weak side
- Ensure sturdy shoes are worn
- Clear environmental hazards
- Use a gait belt when needed
- Do not leave the patient unattended
- Allow the patient to rest
What are some assistive devices for ambulation?
- Canes
- Crutches
- Walkers
- Wheelchairs
What is the two-point gait?
A method where the patient moves the cane and their weaker leg forward at the same time, followed by the stronger leg.
What is the three-point gait?
A method where the patient moves the cane first, then the weaker foot, followed by the stronger leg.
What is important when assisting a patient using a cane?
- Ensure the cane is on the strong side
- The wrist must be even with the hip joint
- The elbow should be flexed at 30 degrees
What is the recommended elbow angle when using forearm crutches?
30 degrees.
What should you do if a patient starts to fall?
- Protect yourself and the patient
- Do not try to hold them upright
- Grasp on the gait belt
- Ease the person to the floor
How should a wheelchair fit a patient?
- 4 inches between the top of the back and armpits
- Armrests support arms without raising shoulders
- 2-3 inches clearance behind knees
- Enough space to slide a hand between hip and chair
- 2 inches between footrest and floor
What is the purpose of a stretchers?
To transport a person safely, ensuring they are never alone and that side rails are up with belts fastened.
What should be done when repositioning a patient in a wheelchair?
- Lock the wheels
- Position the caster wheels forward
- Assist the patient to lean forward
Fill in the blank: A _______ is used for patients who have difficulty balancing and require assistance.
walker.
What are some environmental hazards to check for when preventing falls?
- Slippery surfaces
- Uneven floors
- Loose rugs
True or False: It is acceptable to transport a patient with their feet dangling in a wheelchair.
False.
What is the role of restorative nursing departments regarding wheelchairs?
To work with patients to fit their chair properly and teach them to move independently.
What should you do with a patient’s clothing to prevent it from getting caught in wheelchair wheels?
Prevent linen and clothing from getting caught.
What should be applied when a patient is getting in or out of a wheelchair?
Brakes should be applied.
