The nurse is assessing a patient with an abnormal spinal curvature. Curvature exceeding 65 degrees in one region can lead to serious complications. The nurse should assess which region of the spine for this risk?

Explanation

• A curvature of 65 degrees or more in the thoracic spine can cause cardiopulmonary problems due to impaired chest expansion. If the curvature exceeds 100 degrees, complications can become life-threatening

• Life-threatening complications are not generally caused by curvatures of the sacral, lumbar, or cervical spine

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