NCLEX-PN® ExaminationBasic Care and ComfortMedium
An LPN is assisting a client with left-sided weakness to ambulate using a cane. The client is right-handed. Which instruction should the LPN provide regarding cane use?
- AHold the cane in your left hand.
- BHold the cane in your right hand.
- CPlace the cane 6 inches in front of your feet.
- DAdvance the cane simultaneously with your strong leg.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Hold the cane in your right hand.
The cane should be held in the hand opposite the weak side to provide support and create a wider base of support, assisting with balance. In this case, the client has left-sided weakness, so the cane should be in the right hand.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Holding the cane on the weak side (left hand) would provide less support and stability.
- C. While the distance is generally correct, the most critical instruction for a client with unilateral weakness is where to hold the cane to provide effective support.
- D. The cane should advance with the weak leg, not the strong leg, to provide support when the weak leg moves forward.
Cane Use for Unilateral Weakness
Proper technique for ambulating with a cane when one side of the body is weaker, emphasizing holding the cane on the unaffected (stronger) side.
- Cane held on strong side.
- Advances with the weak leg.
- Provides wider base of support.
Memory trick: Strong side holds the cane, to support the weak one's pain.