Assistive Devices: Fit And Safe Use Practice Test

A 35-year-old client is postoperative after knee surgery and is using crutches with partial weight-bearing. Assessment: the client repeatedly looks down at the crutch tips and loses balance when approaching door thresholds. Which client statement indicates a need for further teaching about their crutches?

A 33-year-old client with a left knee ligament injury is learning to use a cane for weight-bearing as tolerated. The client has good coordination and normal upper-extremity strength but reports feeling “off balance” when turning. What is the most important safety instruction for this client using a cane?