Question

A client is admitted with low back pain. Which position would the nurse place the client in to provide the most comfort? A. Flat with the head of the bed elevated on 6 " blocks B. Semi-Fowler's with the foot of the bed elevated C. Prone with a pillow under the knee D. Semi-Fowler's with the knee gatch raised slightly

Short answer

Answer: The most comfortable position for a client with low back pain would be Option C, which involves placing the client in a prone position with a pillow under the knee. This position helps reduce lumbar lordosis and maintain a neutral spine, which can alleviate low back pain symptoms.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the positions and back pain orientation

Before selecting the best position, we need to understand the options given and how they would affect the client's low back pain. The impact of each position on the client's comfort is dependent on factors such as pressure distribution and spinal alignment.

Analyzing Option A

Option A is to place the client flat with the head of the bed elevated on 6-inch blocks. While some elevation might relieve pressure on the back, this position could cause additional discomfort due to increased pressure on the lower back while lying flat.

Analyzing Option B

Option B is to place the client in the semi-Fowler's position with the foot of the bed elevated. Semi-Fowler's position involves slightly raising the head and shoulders, but the additional elevation of the foot of the bed may not provide the most comfort for the client with low back pain.

Analyzing Option C

Option C is placing the client in a prone position with a pillow under the knee. In this position, the client is lying on their stomach, which can help alleviate low back pain by reducing the lumbar lordosis (inward curve of the spine in the lower back). The pillow under the knee helps to further maintain a neutral spine, which can greatly benefit clients with low back pain.

Analyzing Option D

Option D is placing the client in a semi-Fowler's position with the knee gatch raised slightly. This position involves elevating the head and shoulders while slightly raising the knees. Although this might relieve some pressure on the lower back, it may not be the most comfortable option compared to others.

Conclusion

After analyzing the four different positions, Option C seems to be the most effective choice for providing the most comfort to a client with low back pain. In this position, the client lies prone with a pillow under the knee, reducing lumbar lordosis and maintaining a neutral spine, which can help alleviate low back pain symptoms.