Page 2119 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

c. Minimize long periods of sitting.
d. Instruct the client regarding
medications such as analgesics,
sedatives, antiinflammatory agents,
and corticosteroids.
C. Lumbar disk herniation most often occurs at the L4 to L5 or L5 to
S1 interspace.
1. Herniation produces muscle weakness, sensory
deficits, and diminished tendon reflexes.

2. The client experiences pain and muscle spasms

in the lower back, with radiation of the pain into 1 hip
and down the leg (sciatica).
3. Pain is relieved by bed rest and aggravated by
movement, lifting, straining, and coughing.
4. Interventions
a. Conservative management is indicated
unless neurological deterioration or
bowel and bladder dysfunction occurs.
b. Apply heat to decrease muscle spasms
and apply ice to decrease inflammation
and swelling.
c. Instruct the client to sleep on the side,
with the knees and hips flexed, and
place a pillow between the legs.
d. Apply pelvic traction as prescribed to
relieve muscle spasms and decrease
pain.
e. Begin progressive ambulation as
inflammation, edema, and pain
subside.

5. Client education related to lumbar disk

conditions
a. Instruct the client in the use of
prescribed medications such as
analgesics, muscle relaxants,
antiinflammatory agents, or
corticosteroids.
b. Instruct the client about application
techniques for corsets or braces to
maintain immobilization and proper
spine alignment.
c. Instruct the client in correct posture
while sitting, standing, walking, and
working.
d. Instruct the client in the correct

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