Acute Care/Ambulatory Aids Flashcards
What is another name for the acute phase of healing?
Inflammatory phase
What is the purpose of the acute phase of healing?
1 Defend against foreign intruders
2 remove damaged tissue and debris
3 immobilize area
What is the acronym associated with acute treatment?
Protect Rest Ice Compress Elevate Support (PRICES)
In what direction should wrapping for compression occur?
Distal to proximal
What is the purpose of intermittent compression?
Reduction of acute or chronic edema
What is the most common form of intermittent compression treatment?
Intermittent sequential graded compression (3 compartments: distal, intermediate, and proximal)
Intermittent compression can also be combined with what other therapy?
Cooling
How does elevation help with the acute phase?
Gravity augments the lymph flow
How long does it generally take for elevation above heart level to aid with edema reduction?
20 minutes
What are ways in which the “S” component of the acronym “PRICES” can be used for the acute phase?
Support: nutritional, education, referral for emotional support, bracing/taping/crutches/etc.
What is a consequence with bracing for acute conditions?
Inhibition of muscle action
When the integrity of a joint is not severely compromised is it better to be weight bearing or non-weightbearing?
Weight bearing
What are the measurements for fitting crutches?
6” from outer margin of shoe, 2” in front of shoe, 2” below axilla
At what degree should the elbow be flexed when appropriately fitting for crutches?
30 degrees
What is crutch palsy?
Temporary or permanent paralysis due to pressure on axillary nerve and vessels
What is the gait called with crutches when the affected foot is fully elevated?
Tripod gait (non-weight bearing)
Which form of the tripod gait is easier and requires less coordination?
Swing-to gait by bringing the foot to the crutches
Which form of the tripod gait is faster and requires more coordination?
Swing-through gait by the foot landing in front of the crutches
What is another name for the form of the tripod gait that has partial weight bearing?
Four-point gait
What is the four-point gait?
Affected leg and crutches move forward together
What are the two gait options for using crutches up and down the stairs?
Tripod gait or handrail gait
Which gait is preferred and considered safer when using crutches up and down stairs?
Handrail gait
When using the handrail stair gait with crutches, in which hand should both of the crutches go?
On the affected limb side
When going UP the stairs with crutches, which leg goes first?
Good leg
When going DOWN the stairs with crutches, which leg goes first?
Bad leg (crutches go down first)
How long should a cane be for an individual?
Up to the superior aspect of the greater trochanter of the femur
On which side does the cane go?
OPPOSITE of the side of involvement (moves with involved side)
