Question

"Which of the following is an important part of teaching a patient how to use a walker properly?

A) Look down each time you step to avoid tripping over something.
B) Step close to the front of the walker to maintain your balance.
C) Take your first step with the weaker leg.
D) Slide the walker along the floor rather than lifting it."

Answer 1

Taking the first step with the weaker leg is an important part of using a walker properly, as it helps in maintaining stability and preventing falls.

Step-by-step explanation:

One important part of teaching a patient how to use a walker properly is to take your first step with the weaker leg. This ensures that the patient places the weight on the walker when the weaker leg is moved, providing better stability and balance. It's essential for patients to understand that they should step close to the front of the walker to maintain balance, and they need to lift the walker slightly rather than sliding it on the floor to avoid trips and falls. Stability is also increased by widening the base of support which is achieved by spreading the feet apart and for certain activities like receiving a ball or tackling in football, lowering the center of gravity by bending the knees.