A client is seen in the clinic for acute back pain. Which of the following would be the priority for the nurse to assess in this client?
1. Bowel sounds
2. Blood pressure
3. Gait and spine flexion
4. Stress level
3. Gait and spine flexion
Rationale:
Manifestations of low back pain include alterations in gait and spine flexion. The nurse should assess the client's gait and ability to bend or flex the spine as the priority. Back pain can be associated with gastrointestinal disorders; however, making this diagnosis is not the priority at this time. Blood pressure and stress level would need to be assessed if the client was experiencing chronic back pain and not acute back pain.
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