Which of the following mechanical devices is used to support the patient's back?

Appeared in: RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

A back rest is a device specifically designed to be placed behind the patient to support the back.
Its primary purpose is to help the patient maintain a sitting or semi-sitting (Fowler's) position in bed.
This position enhances lung expansion, relieves pressure, improves comfort, and facilitates activities of daily living like eating.

Option A: A bed cradle is a frame that lifts bed linens off the patient's body, primarily the legs and feet. It does not provide any back support.
Option B: A foot board is placed at the foot of the bed to support the feet and prevent foot drop (plantar flexion). It has no function related to back support.
Option D: A cardiac table is an overbed table used for meals, reading, or other activities. While a patient with breathing difficulty might lean on it for support (orthopneic position), its primary design and purpose is not to support the back.

Visual 1: Diagram - An illustration showing a patient in bed with a back rest in place, demonstrating a semi-Fowler's position.
Visual 2: Image - A photograph of a bed cradle placed over the lower half of a bed.
Visual 3: Image - A photograph of a foot board at the end of a hospital bed with a patient's feet against it.
Visual 4: Image - A photograph of a patient using a cardiac table for a meal.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Use the key finding related to Patient Positioning and Support Devices to guide bedside assessment, documentation, and the next nursing action.
Proper use of positioning devices is a fundamental nursing skill to prevent complications of immobility and enhance patient comfort.
Using a back rest helps prevent respiratory complications like atelectasis and pneumonia by promoting better lung expansion.
Failure to use devices like foot boards can lead to permanent contractures (foot drop), significantly impairing a patient's ability to walk and requiring long-term rehabilitation.

How to Approach the Question

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-1)

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