HESI CAT Exam Related

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A client is admitted with acute low back pain. What action should the nurse implement to promote comfort?

  • A. Ambulate with a walker for upper body support
  • B. Perform abdominal curls to stretch the back muscles
  • C. Position in semi-Fowler's with the knees flexed
  • D. Encourage straight leg raises while lying supine
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Positioning the client in semi-Fowler's with the knees flexed is the most appropriate action to promote comfort in a client with acute low back pain. This position helps alleviate low back pain by reducing the pressure on the spine and supporting its natural curvature. Ambulating with a walker could strain the back, performing abdominal curls may exacerbate the pain, and straight leg raises while lying supine could cause further discomfort. Therefore, only positioning the client in semi-Fowler's with the knees flexed is the correct choice for promoting comfort in this scenario.