Question

A 23-year-old patient came to the emergency department with a fractured left ankle. the ankle fracture has been splinted and immobilized. the patient is scheduled to see the orthopedic surgeon within 48 hours and, until then, cannot put any weight on the injured leg. the patient should receive instructions on which ambulation aid?

a. Two crutches, four-point gait.
b. One crutch, two-point gait.
c. Two crutches, three-point gait.
d. One cane, three-point gait.

Answer 1

The correct ambulation aid for a patient with a splinted and immobilized fractured left ankle is two crutches with a three-point gait, to maintain no weight on the injured ankle.

Step-by-step explanation:

A 23-year-old patient with a splinted and immobilized fractured left ankle is scheduled to see an orthopedic surgeon and needs instruction on using an ambulation aid. The patient is advised not to put any weight on the injured leg. The appropriate ambulation aid in this case would be two crutches with a three-point gait. This is because a three-point gait allows the patient to put weight on both crutches while the injured leg is off the ground, thus maintaining no weight on the injured ankle.

Most ankle sprains can be treated using the RICE technique, but more severe injuries such as fractures may require more complex treatment including possible surgery. Early mobility with the correct ambulation aid not only facilitates independence but may also aid in the recovery process.