Ambulation is the action of walking for which the care recipient may need your help. The physical therapist will set up a plan for both of you to follow. The different types of equipment used to help support people when walking include canes, crutches, and walkers. Each device is adjusted by the physical therapist for a specific elder. The place where the elder holds the walking device should be level with the hip, with the elbow slightly bent. NEVER readjust the devices yourself. Mobility means to move from place to place. Ambulation devices increase mobility. Sometimes, these devices are not enough to allow the care recipient mobility. A wheelchair may be needed instead. The use of a wheelchair involves some special considerations. Remembering to lock the brakes on the wheels when transferring the care recipient into and out of it is very important. Always push the wheelchair from behind except for in an elevator and going down a ramp when you should pull the wheelchair. Assistive devices in ambulation1. Gait belt (transfer belt).2. Cane, Quad cane, Hemi cane3. Walker4. Crutches5. Whealchair.Using a Transfer Belt
A transfer belt is used when a client has a problem changing to a new position, when they need assistance, or a boost. Use the belt to grasp the client and help lift or guide them through a transfer or to walk. Personal care PCP/PCW ‘s are expected to have the transfer belt handy at all times. Guidelines for using the transfer belt for a sit-stand-sit transfer: Plan ahead. Think through the transfer.
Using a Cane
Using a Walker
Assisting with WalkingThese techniques should be followed when walking with any unstable or elderly person, even if he is not using an assistive device, like a walker or cane. ··
Do not walk on the stairs with an unreliable, unsteady, tottering client, or one who cannot totally support their weight. Assisting a Falling ClientA client can lose balance at any time during a transfer, while walking, or during a simple change of position. Follow these guidelines to protect both the client and yourself from injury during a fall:
Assisting a Fallen Client Get Up from the FloorIf a client falls or slides out of a chair, but is alert, uninjured, and able to follow directions, use these guidelines:
Verbally direct the client to roll over onto their side and then onto their hands and knees.
(A wheelchair with locked wheels will work as well).
Helping a Client Walk with a Cane or Walker.Using a Cane:
Using a Walker:
Helping with a Device:
Rising from a Wheelchair with a Walker or Cane:
Sitting with a Walker or Cane:
Climbing Upstairs with a Cane:
Going Down Stairs with a Cane:
Using a WheelchairUsing a Wheelchair to Transport a Client
Guidelines for Wheelchair Transport – One Step:
Going Down a Step with an Unreliable Client:
Going Up a Step:
Going Down: (Reliable Light-Weight Patient)
Using Crutches
– Move right crutch forward 6 – 8”; – Move left foot forward; – Move left crutch forward; – Move right foot forward; – Repeat.
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