The nurse determines that a patient's gait is normal. What did the nurse assess to make this clinical decision?
Select all that apply.
1. The patient does not stumble, run into objects, or fall.
2. The gait is smooth and steady without limping.
3. The gait is slow and deliberate as if the patient is gingerly pulling one side up to meet the other.
4. The gait is jerky and quick, which indicates the patient has excellent motor control.
5. The posture is upright and straight.
Correct Answer: 2, 5
Alterations in gait can be difficult to assess. The nurse should watch the patient walk from the front and from behind and look closely to see that gait is smooth and steady and that posture is upright and straight. Slow, jerky, or stumbling movements are abnormalities that warrant further evaluation. Slow, deliberate movements can indicate pain or another health problem.
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