To prevent brachial plexus nerve injury and axillary artery compression during crutch walking, what is the recommended distance between the axilla and the top of the axillary crutch pad?

1. A

   1 to 1.5 inches

2. B

   2 to 2.5 inches

3. C

   2.5 to 3 inches

4. D

   3 to 4 inches

Appeared in: NORCET-11 Prelims

Explanation

• The recommended distance is 1 to 1.5 inches (2–3 finger widths) between the axilla and the crutch pad.
• This prevents direct pressure on the axilla, reducing risk of nerve and artery injury.
• Proper measurement ensures weight is supported by the hands, not the axilla.
• Standard clinical guidelines support this measurement for safety.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

• Option B: A distance of 2 to 2.5 inches is more than recommended and may cause instability or improper crutch use.
• Option C: 5 to 3 inches exceeds the safe recommended gap, risking poor support and less control during ambulation.
• Option D: 3 to 4 inches is much too large, leading to poor crutch fit and increased risk of falls or improper gait.

Related Visual

Clinical Relevance

• Nursing practice connection: Knowing Measurement for safe axillary crutch fitting to prevent neurovascular injury helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
• Nurses must ensure proper crutch fitting to prevent nerve and vascular injuries in patients using axillary crutches.
• Incorrect crutch height can lead to complications such as crutch palsy (nerve injury) or impaired circulation.
• What if? If the gap is less than 1 inch, the risk of brachial plexus injury increases; if more than 2 inches, the patient may have poor balance and risk of falls.

How to Approach the Question

• Identify the clinical risk (nerve and artery injury) associated with improper crutch fitting.
• Recall the standard measurement for axillary crutch fitting (1 to 1.5 inches or 2–3 finger widths).
• Eliminate options that are outside the recommended range.
• Choose the answer that matches the standard guideline for safe crutch use.

Concept Tested & Keywords

• Concept Tested: Measurement for safe axillary crutch fitting to prevent neurovascular injury
• Stem keywords: brachial plexus nerve injury, axillary artery compression, crutch walking, distance between axilla and crutch pad
• Lead-in keywords: recommended distance
• Clinical cues: prevention of nerve and artery injury during crutch walking

Question ID

QFMEoN8Xq6Y31jxMf8EHlU

Copy ID

Reference Book

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 4 p. 105-107