Restorative Skills Assistive Devices and Adaptive Equipment 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Before using any assistive device with a resident, what should the restorative aide verify?
- The device is ordered, properly fitted, in good repair, and the resident knows how to use it (Correct answer)
- The device is available in the supply room
- A family member approves of the device
- The device was used by a previous resident without problems
Correct answer: The device is ordered, properly fitted, in good repair, and the resident knows how to use it
Assistive devices must be ordered, correctly sized, in safe working condition, and the resident must be trained in their use before each session.
Question 2: A resident's quad cane has a loose rubber tip. What should the aide do?
- Remove the cane from use and report for repair or replacement before the session (Correct answer)
- Continue the session using the cane carefully
- Tape the tip temporarily and proceed
- Switch to a standard cane for that session without reporting
Correct answer: Remove the cane from use and report for repair or replacement before the session
A damaged rubber tip creates a fall hazard; the device must be taken out of use immediately and reported for repair or replacement.
Question 3: What is the correct height adjustment for a standard walker?
- Handles at the resident's wrist crease when standing with arms relaxed at sides (Correct answer)
- Handles at hip level for maximum support
- Handles at elbow height to allow full arm extension
- Height is adjusted based on resident preference only
Correct answer: Handles at the resident's wrist crease when standing with arms relaxed at sides
Walker handles should align with the wrist crease when the resident is standing upright with arms relaxed, creating a slight elbow bend of 15–30 degrees during use.
Question 4: A resident with severe knee arthritis who cannot fully straighten their elbows would benefit most from which walker modification?
- Platform walker (forearm walker) with forearm rests (Correct answer)
- Standard walker with no modifications
- Lowering the walker handles to the lowest setting
- Removing one side of the walker for easier grip
Correct answer: Platform walker (forearm walker) with forearm rests
A platform walker supports the forearms rather than the hands, eliminating the need to fully extend the elbows and reducing stress on arthritic wrists and elbows.
Question 5: What is the purpose of a reacher/grabber tool in restorative ADL training?
- To allow residents to pick up objects without bending, reaching overhead, or twisting (Correct answer)
- To assist with wheelchair propulsion
- To measure distance walked during ambulation training
- To perform strengthening exercises for the shoulder
Correct answer: To allow residents to pick up objects without bending, reaching overhead, or twisting
A reacher/grabber extends the resident's functional reach, enabling them to retrieve objects independently while avoiding unsafe positions such as excessive bending.
Question 6: Which wheelchair component adjustment prevents a resident from sliding forward in the seat?
- Anti-thrust seat cushion or tilting the seat pan slightly backward (Correct answer)
- Raising the footrests higher
- Loosening the armrests
- Lowering the back support
Correct answer: Anti-thrust seat cushion or tilting the seat pan slightly backward
An anti-thrust cushion or posterior tilt of the seat prevents forward sliding by providing a stable seating base and positioning the pelvis correctly.
Restorative Skills Assistive Devices and Adaptive Equipment 1
Before using any assistive device with a resident, what should the restorative aide verify?