Nclexpn Quiz: Assistive Devices Use And Teaching
20 questions · exam conditions
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Assistive Devices Use And TeachingQuestion 1 of 20

A 66-year-old client recovering from a stroke uses a cane and has right-sided weakness. During hallway ambulation with the nurse, the client begins to sway and says, "I'm getting dizzy." What should the nurse do FIRST?

Continue walking to the nearest chair so the client can sit down.
Support the client, have the client sit down immediately (or lower to a safe surface), and assess vital signs.
Ask the client when they last ate and drank to determine possible dehydration.
Teach the client to place the cane on the weaker side to improve balance.
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Nclexpn Quiz

Nclexpn Quiz: Assistive Devices Use And Teaching

Practice Assistive Devices Use And Teaching in Nclexpn with focused quiz questions that help you check what you know, review explanations, and build confidence with test-style prompts.

What this quiz covers

This quiz focuses on Assistive Devices Use And Teaching, giving you a quick way to practice the rules, question types, and explanations that matter most for Nclexpn.

How to use this quiz

Try each quiz question before looking at the correct answer. Use the explanations to review missed ideas, then come back to similar questions until the pattern feels familiar.

All questions

Question 1

A 66-year-old client recovering from a stroke uses a cane and has right-sided weakness. During hallway ambulation with the nurse, the client begins to sway and says, "I'm getting dizzy." What should the nurse do FIRST?

  1. Continue walking to the nearest chair so the client can sit down.
  2. Support the client, have the client sit down immediately (or lower to a safe surface), and assess vital signs. (correct answer)
  3. Ask the client when they last ate and drank to determine possible dehydration.
  4. Teach the client to place the cane on the weaker side to improve balance.

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching, specifically emergency response during ambulation with assistive devices. The primary concern is preventing injury when a client experiences sudden dizziness during ambulation, which could indicate orthostatic hypotension, cardiac issues, or stroke-related complications. The correct answer (B) is the BEST choice because it prioritizes immediate safety by supporting the client and facilitating a controlled descent to sitting (or to the floor if necessary), followed by vital sign assessment to determine the cause. Option A is dangerous as continuing to walk increases fall risk; option C delays necessary immediate intervention; option D addresses technique but ignores the acute safety issue. Effective assistive device teaching must include emergency protocols for managing sudden symptoms during ambulation. When clients experience dizziness or weakness during ambulation, the priority is always 'support and sit' to prevent falls, followed by assessment of the underlying cause.

Question 2

A 7-year-old child with spastic cerebral palsy uses a wheelchair and is being discharged home. The child's parent says, "I pull on his arms to lift him from the wheelchair to the bed because it's faster." What is the PRIORITY nursing response?

  1. Teach the parent to use a gait belt and to lift using the child's trunk/hips, not by pulling on the arms. (correct answer)
  2. Encourage the parent to have the child practice standing transfers without assistance to build independence.
  3. Recommend the parent delay transfers until a second adult is available every time.
  4. Advise the parent to hold the child under the armpits and lift quickly to reduce spasticity.

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching, specifically safe transfer techniques for children with cerebral palsy. The primary concern is preventing injury to both the child and caregiver while maintaining the child's joint integrity and muscle tone. The correct answer (A) is the BEST choice because it provides proper body mechanics instruction using a gait belt and emphasizes lifting from the trunk/hips rather than pulling on arms, which could cause shoulder dislocation or increased spasticity. Option B is unsafe as the child requires assistance due to spasticity; option C is impractical and unnecessarily restrictive; option D is incorrect because lifting under the armpits can cause injury and quick movements can trigger increased spasticity. Effective transfer teaching must address both safety and the specific neuromuscular considerations of cerebral palsy. When teaching caregivers of children with spasticity, emphasize slow, controlled movements and proper body mechanics to prevent injury while managing muscle tone.

Question 3

A 28-year-old client with a new prosthetic leg asks how to care for the prosthetic liner and residual limb. The client works outdoors and sweats heavily and reports a "musty smell" inside the socket. Which information is MOST important to include in teaching?

  1. Clean and thoroughly dry the liner and residual limb daily, and do not apply powders or lotions before wearing unless directed. (correct answer)
  2. Soak the prosthesis in hot water weekly to kill bacteria and reduce odor.
  3. Wear the prosthesis overnight to keep the limb positioned correctly.
  4. Cut away any areas of the liner that feel tight to prevent skin irritation.

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching, specifically prosthetic hygiene and skin care. The primary concern is preventing skin breakdown and infection through proper cleaning and drying techniques, especially important for clients who sweat heavily. The correct answer (A) is the BEST choice because daily cleaning and thorough drying prevents bacterial and fungal growth while avoiding powders/lotions that can cause skin maceration or interfere with prosthetic fit. Option B is incorrect as hot water can damage prosthetic materials; option C is dangerous because overnight wear prevents skin inspection and can cause pressure sores; option D is extremely unsafe as modifying the prosthesis can compromise fit and function. Effective prosthetic teaching emphasizes meticulous hygiene as the foundation for preventing complications. When teaching clients who work in conditions causing heavy perspiration, stress the importance of moisture management and consider recommending moisture-wicking liners or additional liner changes during the day.

Question 4

A 55-year-old client with multiple sclerosis has worsening hand weakness and uses built-up handles and a rocker knife for feeding. The client lives alone and reports coughing during meals when trying to eat quickly. What is the PRIORITY action the nurse should take?

  1. Encourage the client to take smaller bites, sit upright, and pace the meal; notify the registered nurse of possible swallowing difficulty. (correct answer)
  2. Teach the client to switch to regular utensils to improve hand strength.
  3. Recommend drinking thin liquids with each bite to help wash food down.
  4. Instruct the client to eat meals while lying down to reduce fatigue.

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching, specifically recognizing aspiration risk in clients using adaptive feeding equipment. The primary concern is identifying potential dysphagia (swallowing difficulty) indicated by coughing during meals, which requires immediate intervention beyond equipment modification. The correct answer (A) is the BEST choice because it addresses both immediate safety measures (smaller bites, upright positioning, pacing) and appropriate escalation to the RN for swallowing evaluation, as coughing during meals suggests aspiration risk. Option B ignores the safety concern and removes helpful adaptations; option C is dangerous as thin liquids often increase aspiration risk; option D is extremely unsafe as lying down while eating significantly increases aspiration risk. Effective teaching about adaptive equipment must include recognizing when symptoms indicate needs beyond equipment adaptation. When clients report coughing during meals, always assess for dysphagia and implement aspiration precautions while seeking appropriate evaluation.

Question 5

A 26-year-old client has a new below-the-knee prosthetic limb after a traumatic amputation and is being discharged to an apartment with a roommate. The client reports redness and warmth at the end of the residual limb after wearing the prosthesis all day. What is the PRIORITY action the nurse should take?

  1. Instruct the client to apply lotion to the residual limb before putting the prosthesis back on.
  2. Remove the prosthesis and inspect the residual limb and prosthetic socket/liner for pressure areas or debris. (correct answer)
  3. Encourage the client to wear the prosthesis continuously for the next 48 hours to "toughen" the skin.
  4. Tell the client to take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication and continue usual wear.

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching, specifically prosthetic limb care and troubleshooting. The primary concern is identifying and addressing potential skin breakdown or improper prosthetic fit, which are common complications with new prostheses. The correct answer (B) is the BEST choice because immediate inspection allows the nurse to assess for pressure areas, skin breakdown, or prosthetic fit issues that could worsen if left unaddressed. Option A is incorrect because applying lotion before inspection could mask problems and create moisture that promotes skin breakdown; option C is dangerous as continuous wear could exacerbate existing irritation; option D is inappropriate because it ignores the need for assessment and could delay necessary prosthetic adjustments. Effective prosthetic teaching emphasizes daily skin inspection and recognizing signs that require professional evaluation. When clients report redness or discomfort with prosthetic use, always perform a thorough assessment before recommending any intervention.

Question 6

A 52-year-old client with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis has worsening hand weakness and uses adaptive utensils. The client says, "I hold the utensil with my fingertips so I can control it better." Which statement indicates a need for further instruction?

  1. "I can use a utensil with a built-up handle so I don't have to pinch as hard."
  2. "I can use a scoop dish or plate guard to help keep food on the plate."
  3. "I can rest my forearms on the table to reduce fatigue while I eat."
  4. "I should grip the utensil with my fingertips only, even if my hand starts to cramp." (correct answer)

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching for adaptive utensils in ALS with hand weakness. The primary concern is promoting ergonomic grips to reduce cramping and support feeding. Option C indicates a need for further instruction because fingertip gripping exacerbates cramping, whereas adaptive tools allow better control. Options A, B, and D are appropriate: A conserves energy; B eases grip; and D aids containment. Effective client teaching corrects misconceptions gently. A principle of device use is minimizing strain through modifications. A transferable strategy is to encourage trial and feedback on devices.

Question 7

A 24-year-old client with a new prosthetic limb states, "I only check my skin when it hurts." The client has a history of peripheral neuropathy. Which statement indicates a need for further instruction?

  1. "I will keep my residual limb clean and dry to help prevent irritation."
  2. "I will inspect my residual limb every day using a mirror if needed."
  3. "If I notice blisters or open areas, I will stop wearing the prosthesis and contact the prosthetist."
  4. "Pain is the best signal, so if it doesn't hurt, I don't need to look at my skin." (correct answer)

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching for prosthetic skin care with neuropathy. The primary concern is daily inspection despite lack of pain to prevent undetected issues. Option C indicates a need for further instruction because relying on pain overlooks neuropathy's sensory loss. Options A, B, and D are appropriate: A promotes monitoring; B guides action; and D prevents irritation. Effective client teaching stresses vigilance. A principle of device use is proactive care. A transferable strategy is to teach inspection routines for sensory-impaired clients.

Question 8

A 6-year-old child with cerebral palsy uses a wheelchair. The family reports difficulty getting the wheelchair through narrow bathroom doors and wants to remove the armrests to make it "skinnier." What is the nurse's BEST response within LPN/VN scope?

  1. Recommend the family remove the armrests permanently to reduce width and improve access
  2. Instruct the family to tilt the wheelchair onto two wheels and push it sideways through the doorway
  3. Assess how the chair is used and suggest discussing equipment modifications with physical or occupational therapy to maintain safety and proper support (correct answer)
  4. Tell the family to carry the child without the wheelchair in the bathroom to avoid doorway issues

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching for wheelchair modifications in cerebral palsy. The primary teaching point is consulting experts before changes to ensure support and safety. Option B is the best choice because assessing and referring to therapy maintains function without risking posture. Options A, C, and D are incorrect: A removes support; C avoids device; and D risks tipping. Effective client teaching involves interdisciplinary input. A principle of device use is evidence-based adaptations. A transferable strategy is to guide families toward professional evaluations for customizations.

Question 9

A 58-year-old client with a progressive neurologic disorder uses adaptive utensils. The client coughs frequently while eating and reports taking a long time to finish meals. What is the PRIORITY action the nurse should take?

  1. Focus teaching only on utensil grip and ignore coughing since it is expected with neurologic disorders
  2. Stop the meal and assess swallowing safety, then notify the registered nurse or provider per facility policy for possible swallow evaluation (correct answer)
  3. Encourage the client to drink thin liquids with each bite to help wash food down
  4. Provide a larger spoon so the client can take bigger bites and finish faster

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching for adaptive utensils with swallowing risks. The primary concern is addressing coughing to prevent aspiration in neurologic disorders. Option A is the best choice because stopping and assessing ensures safety and prompts evaluation. Options B, C, and D are less optimal: B increases risk; C thins liquids dangerously; and D ignores symptoms. Effective client teaching integrates safety monitoring. A principle of device use is holistic assessment. A transferable strategy is to escalate swallowing concerns promptly.

Question 10

A 77-year-old client is using a walker after hip replacement and is practicing in the hallway. The nurse observes the client lifting the walker and placing it far ahead, then taking a large step and losing balance. What should the nurse do FIRST?

  1. Ask physical therapy to re-evaluate the client's need for an assistive device
  2. Teach the client to ascend stairs using the walker before discharge
  3. Increase the client's pain medication before the next ambulation attempt
  4. Instruct the client to move the walker a short distance forward, keep all four legs on the floor, and step into the walker one step at a time (correct answer)

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching for correcting improper walker technique. The primary concern is immediate intervention to prevent falls from lifting and overreaching with the walker. Option A is the best choice because teaching short, stable movements restores balance and safety during ambulation. Options B, C, and D are less optimal: B masks issues; C is premature; and D delays correction. Effective client teaching uses real-time observation and feedback. A principle of device use is maintaining all legs grounded for stability. A transferable strategy is to intervene promptly with demonstrations during observed errors.

Question 11

A 78-year-old client is 5 days post–total hip replacement and is learning to use a front-wheeled walker. The client lives alone in a small apartment with throw rugs and narrow hallways and reports, "I keep bumping the walker into the door frames and almost tripped on my rug." Which information is MOST important to include when teaching the client about using the walker at home?

  1. Adjust the walker height so the elbows are fully straight when the hands are on the grips
  2. Practice walking longer distances each day to build endurance before focusing on home safety changes
  3. Keep the walker about one step ahead, move it first, then step into the walker, and remove throw rugs and clutter to prevent falls (correct answer)
  4. Use the walker only outdoors so the client can hold onto furniture while walking inside the apartment

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching for safe walker use post-hip replacement. The primary concern is preventing falls in a home environment with obstacles like throw rugs and narrow hallways. Option A is the best choice because it emphasizes proper walker technique and home modifications to enhance stability and reduce tripping hazards, directly addressing the client's reported issues. Options B, C, and D are less optimal: B prioritizes endurance over immediate safety; C limits walker use inappropriately; and D suggests incorrect height adjustment that could cause poor posture. Effective client teaching involves demonstrating techniques and assessing the home for modifications. A key principle of device use is ensuring the environment supports safe mobility. A transferable strategy is to always include return demonstrations and home safety assessments when teaching assistive device use.

Question 12

A 25-year-old client has a new below-the-knee prosthetic limb after a motorcycle crash 3 months ago. The client lives with roommates and reports redness at the end of the residual limb after wearing the prosthesis all day. What is the PRIORITY action the nurse should take when the client reports this issue?

  1. Advise the client to scrub the residual limb with alcohol after each use to prevent infection
  2. Teach the client to add extra socks immediately and continue wearing the prosthesis to "toughen up" the skin
  3. Apply a heating pad to the reddened area to increase circulation before reapplying the prosthesis
  4. Instruct the client to stop wearing the prosthesis and notify the prosthetist or health care provider if redness does not fade within about 20 minutes (correct answer)

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching for prosthetic limb care to prevent skin complications. The primary concern is monitoring and responding to skin redness to avoid breakdown or infection in a new amputee. Option A is the best choice because it promotes prompt removal and professional notification if redness persists, prioritizing skin integrity and safety. Options B, C, and D are less optimal: B risks further irritation; C could cause burns; and D increases infection risk with alcohol. Effective client teaching emphasizes daily skin inspection and when to seek help. A key principle of device use is gradual wear time to build tolerance. A transferable strategy is to teach clients self-monitoring signs and symptoms for early intervention in assistive device complications.

Question 13

A 9-year-old child with spastic cerebral palsy uses a wheelchair at school and home. The family lives in a second-floor apartment and reports difficulty transferring the child from the wheelchair to the bed safely. Which information is MOST important to include when teaching the family about wheelchair-to-bed transfers?

  1. Position the wheelchair at the foot of the bed and lift the child straight up to reduce twisting
  2. Have the child hold onto the caregiver's neck during the transfer to prevent slipping
  3. Lock the wheelchair brakes, remove or swing away the footrests, and use a transfer belt while keeping the child close to the caregiver's center of gravity (correct answer)
  4. Keep the wheelchair unlocked so it can move with the child during the transfer

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching for safe wheelchair transfers in children with cerebral palsy. The primary teaching point is using proper body mechanics and equipment to prevent injury during transfers, especially in challenging home environments. Option A is the best choice because locking brakes, adjusting footrests, and using a transfer belt while keeping the child close minimizes fall risk and strain. Options B, C, and D are incorrect: B promotes unsafe holding; C risks twisting; and D allows wheelchair movement. Effective client teaching involves step-by-step demonstrations with family participation. A principle of device use is maintaining stability and alignment during transfers. A transferable strategy is to incorporate safety checklists and practice sessions for families learning transfer techniques.

Question 14

A 27-year-old client with a new prosthetic leg reports the prosthesis "clicks" and feels loose when walking. The client has diabetes and decreased sensation in the residual limb. Which action should the nurse take FIRST?

  1. Inspect the residual limb skin and ask about wear time, sock ply, and any recent weight changes before advising follow-up with the prosthetist (correct answer)
  2. Instruct the client to apply powder inside the socket to reduce friction and noise
  3. Advise the client to oil the prosthetic joint at home to stop the clicking
  4. Tell the client to tighten the prosthesis straps as much as possible and continue walking to test stability

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching for prosthetic issues like looseness and noise. The primary teaching point is assessing factors affecting fit, such as weight changes or sock use, especially with diabetes-related sensation loss. Option B is the best choice because inspecting the limb and gathering history guides safe follow-up, preventing complications like falls or skin damage. Options A, C, and D are incorrect: A risks instability; C and D introduce improper modifications. Effective client teaching involves holistic assessment before interventions. A principle of device use is monitoring for changes in body condition affecting fit. A transferable strategy is to collaborate with specialists like prosthetists for ongoing device adjustments.

Question 15

A 62-year-old client recovering from an ischemic stroke is using a cane for the first time. The client lives with a spouse in a one-story home and reports feeling unsteady when walking from the bedroom to the bathroom at night. What should the nurse do FIRST when assisting the client with the cane?

  1. Assess the cane height and gait pattern, then reinforce placing the cane on the stronger side and moving it with the weaker leg (correct answer)
  2. Request a provider order for a walker before allowing the client to ambulate again
  3. Teach the client to place the cane on the weaker side to reduce strain on the stronger leg
  4. Encourage the client to stop using the cane at night and use furniture for support instead

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching for cane use after a stroke. The primary teaching point is ensuring proper cane placement and gait to promote balance and prevent falls, especially at night. Option B is the best choice because assessing fit and reinforcing correct technique—cane on the stronger side moved with the weaker leg—addresses unsteadiness and supports safe ambulation. Options A, C, and D are incorrect: A teaches improper placement; C encourages unsafe furniture reliance; and D escalates to a walker prematurely without assessment. Effective client teaching includes hands-on demonstration and correction of technique. A principle of device use is fitting the device to the client's body mechanics for optimal support. A transferable strategy is to prioritize assessment and immediate correction of improper use before advancing to complex scenarios.

Question 16

A 31-year-old client with a prosthetic limb reports pain and a "burning" sensation in the residual limb during walking. The client recently started a new job requiring more standing. What is the PRIORITY action the nurse should take?

  1. Recommend doubling work hours gradually to condition the limb more quickly
  2. Teach the client to apply lotion inside the socket to reduce burning
  3. Encourage the client to take over-the-counter pain medication and continue wearing the prosthesis to build tolerance
  4. Assess the residual limb for skin breakdown and fit issues, and instruct the client to remove the prosthesis and rest if pain occurs (correct answer)

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching for prosthetic pain management. The primary teaching point is assessing for breakdown and advising rest to prevent injury from increased activity. Option A is the best choice because inspection and removal if painful prioritize safety and healing. Options B, C, and D are less optimal: B ignores causes; C causes slippage; and D overexerts. Effective client teaching emphasizes symptom recognition. A principle of device use is gradual activity increase. A transferable strategy is to teach pain as a signal for immediate action.

Question 17

A 54-year-old client with Parkinson disease has increasing tremors and rigidity and is now using adaptive utensils at meals. The client lives with a partner and reports, "I'm embarrassed, so I just skip meals." Which client statement indicates a need for further instruction about adaptive utensils?

  1. "If the utensil has a built-up handle, it may be easier for me to grip."
  2. "I can use a weighted spoon to help steady my hand when I'm eating."
  3. "I can try a plate guard to keep food from sliding off the plate."
  4. "I should avoid using adaptive utensils because they will make my hand muscles weaker." (correct answer)

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching for adaptive utensils in Parkinson disease to promote independence. The primary concern is addressing embarrassment and encouraging consistent use to maintain nutrition without weakening muscles. Option C indicates a need for further instruction because avoiding adaptive utensils does not weaken muscles and can actually support better function and self-care. Options A, B, and D are correct statements: A and D aid stability and containment; B improves grip ease. Effective client teaching normalizes device use and focuses on benefits. A principle of device use is selecting tools that compensate for deficits without promoting dependency. A transferable strategy is to address psychosocial barriers like embarrassment through empathetic discussion and success stories.

Question 18

A 79-year-old client is learning to use a walker after hip replacement and is preparing for discharge to a home with two steps at the entrance and no handrail. The client says, "I'll just carry the walker up the steps." Which client statement indicates a need for further instruction about the walker?

  1. "I will ask someone to install a handrail or help me until it's safe to manage the steps."
  2. "I will carry the walker while stepping up so I can use the other hand to balance." (correct answer)
  3. "I will keep the walker close and avoid leaning too far forward."
  4. "I will remove throw rugs and cords from my walking path."

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching for walker use after hip replacement in homes with stairs. The primary teaching point is safe stair navigation without carrying the walker to prevent imbalance and falls. Option C indicates a need for further instruction because carrying the walker risks loss of support and injury, especially without a handrail. Options A, B, and D are appropriate: A seeks help or modifications; B maintains posture; and D clears paths. Effective client teaching includes scenario-based practice for stairs. A principle of device use is adapting techniques to environmental barriers safely. A transferable strategy is to use role-playing for hazardous situations to reinforce safe alternatives.

Question 19

A 10-year-old child with cerebral palsy uses a wheelchair. The caregiver reports the child slides forward in the seat and the feet dangle because the footrests "are in the way." Which teaching is MOST important?

  1. Remove the footrests permanently so the child can scoot forward and self-position
  2. Adjust the footrests so thighs are supported and feet rest flat on the footplates to improve posture and reduce skin breakdown risk (correct answer)
  3. Place a pillow behind the child's knees to prevent sliding during the day
  4. Encourage the child to sit on the edge of the seat to make transfers easier

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching for wheelchair positioning in children with cerebral palsy. The primary concern is proper footrest adjustment to prevent sliding and maintain posture, reducing pressure sores. Option B is the best choice because supporting thighs and feet flat enhances stability and skin protection, addressing the caregiver's report. Options A, C, and D are less optimal: A hinders access; C and D promote poor positioning. Effective client teaching includes demonstrating adjustments and rationale. A principle of device use is ensuring alignment to distribute pressure evenly. A transferable strategy is to teach caregivers daily positioning checks to prevent complications.

Question 20

A 60-year-old client with right-sided weakness after stroke is using a cane. The client lives alone and reports the cane "feels too tall" and causes shoulder pain. What is the PRIORITY action the nurse should take?

  1. Teach the client to use the cane on the weaker side to reduce shoulder strain
  2. Assess cane fit by checking that the handgrip aligns with the wrist crease when the client stands upright with arms relaxed (correct answer)
  3. Instruct the client to stop using the cane until a provider evaluates the shoulder pain
  4. Recommend the client switch to crutches for better weight bearing

Explanation: This question tests understanding of assistive devices and client teaching for proper cane fitting in clients with post-stroke weakness. The primary concern is adjusting cane height to alleviate shoulder pain and ensure ergonomic support. Option A is the best choice because verifying the handgrip at wrist crease promotes correct posture and reduces strain, directly addressing the client's complaint. Options B, C, and D are less optimal: B teaches incorrect side placement; C switches devices without need; and D halts use unnecessarily. Effective client teaching starts with assessment and immediate adjustments. A principle of device use is customizing fit to individual anthropometrics. A transferable strategy is to routinely check device fit during follow-up to prevent secondary issues like pain.