Question

The pn is assigned to care for an older male client who is recovering from a stroke. when assissting this client to ambulate with the use of cane where should the pn place the cane in relation to the clients body?

Answer 1

The cane should be placed on the client's stronger side, which is the right hand in Theona's case, as it supports balance and compensates for the weakness on the affected side.

Step-by-step explanation:

When assisting an older male client recovering from a stroke in ambulating with the use of a cane, the practical nurse (PN) should place the cane on the client's stronger side to provide the best support. The cane should be used on the unaffected side, helping to take some weight off the weaker side and to maintain balance. The client grips the cane with the hand on their stronger side and moves the cane forward at the same time as the opposite, weaker leg.

In the example given, with Theona experiencing difficulty moving her left leg due to a stroke affecting the right hemisphere of her brain, she should hold the cane in her right hand to assist with walking. This technique helps compensate for the weakness on one side of her body and supports safer ambulation.