A client has been fitted with crutches. The nurse is assessing the crutches to determine if they properly fit the client. What observation would cause the nurse the most concern?
1. When the client is standing, with the hands placed on the hand supports, the arms are straight.
2. There is space of about 1 to 2 in between the axillary fold and the top of the crutch.
3. The client can comfortably place crutches about 6 to 8 in lateral to the heel of his foot when walking.
4. The arms are flexed about 30 degrees and resting on the hand supports when the client is standing.
Answer: 1
When the client is standing at rest, the arms should be flexed about 30 degrees. This allows for weight bearing on the hand supports and not under the client's arm when the client begins to walk. There should be about 1 to 2 in between the axillary fold and the top of the crutch to prevent axillary nerve damage. The client should be able to comfortably place the crutches about 6 to 8 in lateral to the heel of the foot.
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