Final answer:
The statement is true, as properly fitted crutches should have the patient's elbows bent at a 30-degree angle for effective support and safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "If a patient has been properly fitted for crutches, the elbows should be bent approximately 30 degrees when the patient holds the handgrips" is true. Proper crutch fitting is essential to ensure that the user can move comfortably and safely. When a patient stands upright with their hands on the grips, their elbows should indeed be bent at a 30-degree angle. This position allows for sufficient support while minimizing the strain on the upper limbs during movement. The 30-degree bend also ensures that the crutch tops don't press too tightly against the sides of the torso, which could otherwise cause nerve damage or restrict arterial flow.