Nokea
A pregnant patient at 30 weeks gestation reports lower back pain and difficulty sleeping. Which of the following is the most appropriate recommendation for the nurse to make?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Using a firm mattress and avoiding sleeping on the back is the most appropriate recommendation for a pregnant patient at 30 weeks gestation experiencing lower back pain. Here's why:
1. Firm mattress provides better support for the back and helps maintain proper spinal alignment during sleep.
2. Avoiding sleeping on the back reduces pressure on the major blood vessels, preventing potential complications like supine hypotensive syndrome.
3. Resting in bed with legs elevated (choice A) may not address the root cause of back pain and may not be recommended for extended periods during pregnancy.
4. Taking over-the-counter pain medications (choice C) should be avoided unless prescribed by a healthcare provider due to potential risks to the fetus.
5. Performing light stretching exercises (choice D) can be beneficial, but avoiding certain positions like lying on the back is more crucial for back pain relief during pregnancy.