When assessing the understanding of a new skill, such as using crutches, the best way is to ask for a return demonstration. It may be appropriate to also ask the patient what questions they have. The nurse can ask if anything was confusing, but this is not the best way to assess understanding of the teaching of a skill. Asking the patient to use their own words to explain something is helpful when teaching about a disease process or new medication but less so when teaching a skill such as using crutches.