ATI Fundamentals Assessment Guide Using crutches, canes, & walkers

crutches: 4-point gait (weight bearing) - 1. Place right crutch forward a comfortable distance. 2. Shift weight and move left foot forward. Never place foot ahead of crutch that was just moved. 3. Move left crutch forward. 4. Move right foot forward. 5. Repeat steps above crutches: 2-point gait (non-weight bearing) - 1. Begin in the tripod position, maintain weight on the "unaffected" [weight-bearing] extremity 2. Advance both crutches and the affected extremity [crutches are placed forward 6 - 8 inches] 3. Move the "unaffected" weight-bearing foot/leg forward [beyond the crutches] 4. Advance both crutches, and then the affected extremity 5. Continue sequence making steps of equal length crutches: walking up stairs - 1. Hold on to rail with on hand and crutches with the other hand 2. step up with the strong (unaffected) leg 3. Bring the "affected" leg and the crutches up "Up with the 'good'" crutches: walking down stairs - 1. Place the "affected" leg and the crutches down on the step below; support weight by leaning on the crutches 2. Bring the "unaffected" leg down "Down with the 'bad'" using a cane - 1. Cane is used on the good, "unaffected," side to provide support to the opposite lower limb 2. Advance cane simultaneously with the opposite "affected" lower limb 3. The "unaffected" lower limb should assume the first full weight-bearing step on level surfaces using a walker - 1. Advance walker approximately 12 inches 2. Advance the "affected" lower limb crutches: sitting down - 1. With your crutches, back up to the chair or bed until you feel it behind your knees. Take the crutches from under your arms. Put them together, and hold onto both hand grips with one hand. 2. Reach back for the chair or bed with your free hand. 3. Slowly lower yourself onto the chair or bed crutches standing up - 1. Hold the hand grips of both crutches in one hand. 2. Push off from the chair or bed with one hand, with the crutches in your other hand (see picture at right). 3. Stand, and then check your balance. 4. Place the crutches under your arms, and press them to your sides