Flashcard 6 - Basic Care and Comfort Flashcard Set for the NCLEX-PN Exam

nerve compression and/or damage

If the crutches are too high, the client may put excessive pressure on the axilla and/or all of his or her weight on the top padding of the crutches. This can cause nerve compression and/or damage. Axillary nerve damage can lead to potential paralysis, loss of feeling, or loss of movement in the arm.