Question

The nurse is teaching a client with Parkinson's disease ways to prevent curvatures of the spine associated with the disease. To prevent spinal flexion, the nurse should tell the client to: A. Periodically lie prone without a neck pillow B. Sleep only in dorsal recumbent position C. Rest in supine position with his head elevated D. Sleep on either side but keep his back straight

Short answer

A) Periodically lie prone without a neck pillow B) Sleep only in the dorsal recumbent position C) Rest in the supine position with the head elevated D) Sleep on either side but keep the back straight Answer: A) Periodically lie prone without a neck pillow Explanation: Periodically lying prone without a neck pillow allows the client to keep their back straight and the weight evenly distributed, which can help prevent spinal flexion associated with Parkinson's disease. The other options do not provide the same level of support and effectiveness in preventing spinal curvature.

Step-by-step solution

Option A Assessment

Periodically lying prone without a neck pillow can help stretch the back muscles and alleviate any strain on the spine. This position allows the client to have their back straight and weight evenly distributed. So, this is a good option for preventing spinal flexion.

Option B Assessment

Sleeping only in the dorsal recumbent position, which means lying on the back with the knees bent, may not be the best option for preventing spinal flexion. In this position, the back is not completely straight, and the weight is not evenly distributed. This option is not ideal for preventing spinal curvature.

Option C Assessment

Resting in the supine position with the head elevated might not be the most effective for preventing spinal flexion. In this position, although the back is straight, the elevation of the head can still cause some stress on the spine. This option is not the most effective for preventing spinal curvature.

Option D Assessment

Sleeping on either side but keeping the back straight is not the best option for preventing spinal flexion. Lying on the side can still cause uneven distribution of weight, and it may be hard for the client to maintain a fully straight back while sleeping in this position. This option is not the most effective for preventing spinal curvature.

Correct Answer and Explanation

Based on the assessments of each option, the correct answer is A. Periodically lie prone without a neck pillow. This position allows the client to keep their back straight and the weight evenly distributed, helping to prevent spinal flexion associated with Parkinson's disease.