What should the nurse teach the patient recovering from an episode of acute low back pain?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is option A) Perform daily exercise as a lifelong routine. This option is the most appropriate because regular exercise plays a crucial role in preventing and managing low back pain. Strengthening exercises help support the spine and improve flexibility, reducing the risk of future episodes of low back pain. Additionally, exercise promotes overall health and well-being, which can positively impact recovery and prevent recurrence of pain. Option B) Sit in a chair with the hips higher than the knees is incorrect because while maintaining proper posture is important for back health, this specific position may not be practical or feasible in all situations. It is essential to promote good posture and body mechanics, but this alone is not sufficient for recovery from acute low back pain. Option C) Avoid occupations in which the use of the body is required is incorrect because it is unrealistic and impractical advice. Most occupations require some level of physical activity, and avoiding them altogether is not a viable solution for managing or recovering from low back pain. Option D) Sleep on the abdomen or on the back with the legs extended is incorrect because there is no one-size-fits-all sleeping position for individuals with low back pain. The best sleeping position varies from person to person based on their specific condition and comfort level. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to provide evidence-based education to patients recovering from low back pain. Teaching patients about the benefits of exercise, proper posture, body mechanics, and individualized self-care strategies empowers them to take an active role in their recovery and overall health. Encouraging patients to adopt healthy lifestyle habits, including regular exercise, can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the case of ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the spine, joints, and ligaments, it is crucial for patients to perform back, neck, and chest stretches along with deep-breathing exercises to maintain flexibility and prevent complications like spinal fusion. These exercises help improve posture, reduce stiffness, and enhance respiratory function, which are essential for managing the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis. Option A is incorrect because while proper footwear is important for overall comfort and joint support, it does not directly address the specific needs of ankylosing spondylitis patients. Option B is incorrect as sleeping on the side with the knees and hips flexed may provide temporary relief but does not address the need for ongoing exercise and stretching to maintain flexibility and prevent complications. Option C is incorrect as keeping the spine slightly flexed may aggravate the condition by promoting a posture that can lead to increased stiffness and decreased mobility over time. Understanding the rationale behind the correct answer is crucial for nursing students preparing for the NCLEX exam as it not only tests their knowledge of specific conditions but also reinforces the importance of patient education and tailored interventions to improve patient outcomes in real-world clinical practice.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.