Table 2.

Nurses and Physical Therapists Roles.

Preoperative Course

RN •Reinforces physician teaching •Ensures patient’s needs are met •Ensures educational objectives are understood •Thorough neurological exam

Postoperative Course

RN • Neurological Exam o Strength and sensation below the lesion •Pharmacologic Pain control per anesthesia protocol • Nonpharmacological pain control o Ice/Cold ≤ 20 min/hr up to 4 consecutive hours •Urination: bladder scan, Intake & Output • Discharge planning o Physical activity restrictions: avoid twisting, bending, lifting ˃ 20lbs o Encourage ambulation as tolerated PT •Early mobilization and ambulation