Posterior - Nursing Science

What Does "Posterior" Mean in Nursing?

In nursing and medical terminology, posterior refers to the back or rear side of the body. It is the opposite of anterior, which means the front side. Understanding these terms is crucial for accurate body assessment and documentation.

Why Is Posterior Assessment Important?

Posterior assessment is essential for evaluating conditions like pressure ulcers, spinal health, and respiratory function. For instance, nurses need to inspect the posterior thorax to listen for lung sounds and assess the back for any signs of skin breakdown.

How to Perform a Posterior Assessment?

To perform a posterior assessment, the patient can be asked to sit up or lie on their side. The nurse should inspect the skin for any abnormalities such as bruises, rashes, or pressure injuries. Palpation can help identify any tenderness, and auscultation is used to listen for lung sounds in the posterior thorax.

Common Conditions Affecting the Posterior Side

Several conditions can affect the posterior side of the body, including:

Pressure Ulcers: Often found in immobile patients, particularly on the sacrum and heels.
Scoliosis: A curvature of the spine that can be observed from the posterior aspect.
Spinal Injuries: These can be assessed by checking for alignment and tenderness along the spine.
Muscle Strains: Common in the lower back, requiring both visual and tactile examination.

Documenting Posterior Findings

Accurate documentation is crucial in nursing. When documenting posterior findings, include details such as the location, size, and characteristics of any abnormalities. For example, "A 2 cm pressure ulcer located on the sacrum, stage 2, with partial thickness skin loss." This level of detail helps in planning care interventions and monitoring progress.

Interventions for Posterior Health

Interventions to maintain or improve posterior health include:

Repositioning the patient every 2 hours to prevent pressure ulcers.
Using supportive devices such as cushions or specialized mattresses.
Providing physical therapy to strengthen back muscles.
Teaching proper body mechanics to prevent back injuries.

FAQs

Q: What is the posterior thorax?
A: The posterior thorax refers to the back part of the chest, including the area where the lungs and heart are located. It is crucial for auscultating lung sounds.

Q: How do nurses assess for scoliosis?
A: Nurses assess for scoliosis by inspecting the alignment of the spine when the patient bends forward. Uneven shoulders or hips can indicate scoliosis.

Q: Why is repositioning important for posterior health?
A: Repositioning is vital to prevent pressure ulcers and improve circulation, especially in immobile patients. It helps distribute weight evenly and reduces prolonged pressure on any one area.

Q: What are the signs of a pressure ulcer on the posterior side?
A: Signs include redness, non-blanchable erythema, open sores, and areas of skin that are warmer or cooler to the touch than surrounding areas.

Q: When should posterior auscultation be performed?
A: Posterior auscultation should be performed during routine physical exams, particularly in patients with respiratory symptoms or conditions like pneumonia.