Restorative Skills Assistive Devices and Adaptive Equipment 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A transfer belt (gait belt) should NOT be used when:
- The resident has a colostomy, abdominal wounds, or recent abdominal surgery in the belt area (Correct answer)
- The resident weighs more than 150 pounds
- The resident refuses to use a walker
- The aide is working alone with a resident
Correct answer: The resident has a colostomy, abdominal wounds, or recent abdominal surgery in the belt area
The gait belt must not be placed over wounds, ostomies, or post-surgical sites where pressure could cause injury, pain, or wound disruption.
Question 2: What is the main benefit of a rollator (four-wheeled walker with a seat) over a standard walker?
- It allows continuous walking without picking up the frame, and provides a rest seat (Correct answer)
- It offers greater stability than a standard walker
- It is appropriate for non-weight-bearing residents
- It requires no safety training before use
Correct answer: It allows continuous walking without picking up the frame, and provides a rest seat
A rollator rolls continuously for a more natural gait pattern and includes a built-in seat for rest, but it requires cognitive ability and good hand brake control.
Question 3: What type of cushion is most appropriate for a resident at high risk for pressure injuries who uses a wheelchair?
- Pressure-redistributing cushion such as gel or air-filled cushion (Correct answer)
- Standard foam cushion from any office chair
- Folded blanket or towel for padding
- No cushion — firm surfaces reduce skin breakdown
Correct answer: Pressure-redistributing cushion such as gel or air-filled cushion
Pressure-redistributing cushions reduce peak pressure over bony prominences in the buttocks and tailbone, significantly lowering the risk of pressure injuries.
Question 4: A resident with right hemiplegia propels their wheelchair with which technique?
- Using the stronger left hand to push the wheel and the left foot to steer (Correct answer)
- Pushing with both arms simultaneously
- Using a power wheelchair exclusively
- Propelling only backward to avoid falls
Correct answer: Using the stronger left hand to push the wheel and the left foot to steer
Residents with one-sided weakness use the unaffected arm on the wheel and the unaffected foot on the floor to steer and propel the wheelchair.
Question 5: Which is an appropriate use for a transfer board (sliding board)?
- Lateral transfer for a resident with adequate upper body strength who cannot stand (Correct answer)
- Transfers for residents who are fully ambulatory
- Lifting a completely dependent resident from the floor
- Replacing a mechanical lift for bariatric residents
Correct answer: Lateral transfer for a resident with adequate upper body strength who cannot stand
A sliding board bridges the gap between two surfaces and allows a resident with upper body strength but unable to stand to slide laterally during transfers.
Question 6: What is the safe patient handling principle regarding manual lifts?
- Manual two-person lifts should be avoided; use mechanical lifts for dependent residents (Correct answer)
- Two aides can safely lift any resident manually
- Manual lifting is preferred to keep residents comfortable
- Mechanical lifts are only required for residents over 250 pounds
Correct answer: Manual two-person lifts should be avoided; use mechanical lifts for dependent residents
Safe patient handling standards strongly discourage manual lifts due to high injury risk to both staff and residents; mechanical lift equipment should be used for dependent residents.
Restorative Skills Assistive Devices and Adaptive Equipment 2
A transfer belt (gait belt) should NOT be used when: