HHA Mobility and Transfer Techniques 3

Question 1

When a patient uses a standard walker for ambulation, how far ahead should the walker be advanced with each step?

Accepted Answer

About one arm's length, keeping it within a small step

Answer

Advancing the walker one small step ahead keeps the patient's center of gravity stable and reduces fall risk.

Question 2

A patient has right-sided weakness. In which hand should a standard cane be held?

Accepted Answer

Left hand, on the strong side

Answer

A cane held on the strong side offloads weight from the weak leg during the stance phase of gait.

Question 3

When assisting a patient with a cane to climb stairs, the correct sequence is:

Accepted Answer

Strong leg first, then cane, then weak leg

Answer

Going up stairs: strong leg leads so it does the work of lifting the body up to the next step.

Question 4

The correct handle height for a properly fitted standard walker is at the level of the patient's:

Accepted Answer

Hip bone (greater trochanter) with arms slightly bent

Answer

Walker handles at the hip bone allow 20–30 degrees of elbow flexion, which is the optimal position for safe weight bearing.

Question 5

A patient with a walker approaches a standard threshold. The HHA should instruct the patient to:

Accepted Answer

Slide the walker over the threshold first, then step over

Answer

Moving the walker over the threshold first ensures the patient has a stable support ready before stepping.

HHA Practice Test