Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

Devices used to stabilize a weak joint or limb, such as splints and braces, are known as:

1. Subacute phase

2. Supportive devices

3. Feeble or weak

4. Speech-language pathology

The correct answer is: Supportive devices

Supportive devices are specifically designed to help stabilize weak joints or limbs, providing crucial assistance during the healing process or while managing a chronic condition. These devices, which include splints, braces, and other aids, serve to enhance mobility and ensure proper alignment and support for the affected areas of the body. The term "supportive devices" encompasses a wide variety of equipment aimed at promoting functionality while preventing further injury. In the context of patient care, understanding and utilizing these devices correctly plays a vital role in enhancing the patient’s quality of life and recovery outcomes. The other options provided do not pertain to the concept of stabilizing devices. For instance, the subacute phase pertains to a stage of recovery, while "feeble or weak" describes a condition rather than a supportive measure. Speech-language pathology is a field focused on communication disorders and does not relate to joint or limb stabilization. Thus, supportive devices is the correct classification for splints and braces.