Which type of crutch is frequently used by patients of all ages on a short-term basis?

Appeared in: RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

Axillary crutches are specifically designed to provide support for patients with temporary restrictions on ambulation, such as after an acute injury or surgery.
They are the most common type used for short-term needs because they are readily available, adjustable, and suitable for a wide range of patients who have adequate upper body strength.
The design allows for significant weight transfer from the lower limbs to the upper body, facilitating mobility while an injury heals.

Option A: Platform crutches are a specialized type of crutch, not a frequent choice for general short-term use.
Option C: Lofstrand crutches, also known as forearm crutches, are indicated for long-term or permanent use, not short-term needs.
Option D: Extensor crutch is not a standard, recognized classification of crutch in medical or nursing practice.

Visual 1: Diagram - A side-by-side comparison of Axillary, Lofstrand (Forearm), and Platform crutches, highlighting their key structural differences and points of contact with the body.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Types of crutches and their indications for use as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A primary nursing responsibility is ensuring crutches are fitted correctly. Improper fitting can lead to instability, falls, or serious neurovascular complications like crutch palsy (radial nerve damage) from pressure on the axilla.
Patient education is critical for safety. Nurses must teach the correct gait pattern, how to navigate stairs, and the importance of supporting weight on the hands, not the armpits.
What if? If the patient was an elderly individual with poor upper body strength and balance, crutches might not be the safest option. A walker would likely be prescribed instead, as it provides a wider, more stable base of support.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key requirements from the question stem: the device is a 'crutch' and its use is 'short-term'.
This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of different ambulatory aids and their specific indications.
Mentally review the common types of crutches and their primary uses.
Associate 'Axillary crutches' with temporary injuries (e.g., a broken ankle).
Associate 'Lofstrand (forearm) crutches' with long-term or permanent conditions.
Recognize 'Platform crutches' as a special adaptation for hand/wrist problems.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-1)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.