Nursing Care Management 114

Geriatrics
Procedural Checklist in
Assisting with Cane

Name: ____________ Date: ______Year/Sec: ___

Rating:
General Objectives: To assist patient in using cane with maximum comfort and safety for the
patient and nurse.
Specific Objectives:
1. Assess the reason, why the client requires an assistive device.

2. Assess the client’s physical limitations.

3. Assess the client’s physical environment.

4. Assess the client’s ability to understand and follow directions.

5. The client will be ambulating safely with an assistive device.

6. The client will feel confident while using the assistive device.

Item Weight Descriptors Verbal Interpretation

4 Excellent Performed the procedure with great ease and confidence,
observing work ethics (prudent, accepts criticisms and
suggestions), able to rationalize scientifically and shows
diligence in documenting observations at all times .
3 Very Performed the procedure with less confidence, observing work
ethics (prudent, accepts criticisms and suggestions), able to
Satisfactory
rationalize scientifically and shows minimal diligence in
documenting observations.
2 Satisfactory Performed the procedure but requires close supervision and
shows potential for improvement.
1 Needs Failed to perform the procedure, unable to function well and
 Improvement needs repeated specific/ detailed guidance or direction.
CRITERIA:

I. Skills – Walking with Cane 4.0 3.0 2.0 1.0 Remarks

1. Wash hands.

2. Inform client you will be teaching cane

ambulation.

3. Lower the height of the bed.

4. Dangle the client. Assess for vertigo.

5. Assess client for strength, mobility, range of

motion, visual acuity, perceptual difficulties,
and balance.

6. Apply the gait belt around the client’s waist,

if needed.

7. Have the client hold the cane in the hand

opposite of the affected leg.

8. Have the client push up from sitting while

pushing down on the bed with the arms.

9. Have the client stand at the bedside for a

few moments.

10. Assess the height of the cane.

11. Walk to the side and slightly behind the

client.

12. The Cane Gait

 Move the cane and the weaker leg

forward at the same time for the same
distance.
 Place weight on the weaker leg and the
cane.
  Move the strong leg forward.
 Place weight on the strong leg.

13. Sitting with a Cane

 Have client turn around and back up to

the chair.
 Client grasps the arm of the chair with
the free hand and lowers into the chair.
 Place the cane out of the way but within
reach.

14. Set realistic goals.

15. Consult with a physical therapist.

16. Wash hands.

17. Documentation

Comments: (Strengths & Weaknesses)

Conforme: Evaluated by:

___________________ ____________________________________
Student’s Signature CI’s Signature over Printed Name
Date: Date: