A patient newly diagnosed with a cervical disk herniation is receiving health education from the clinic nurse. What conservative management measures should the nurse teach the patient to implement?

(A) Perform active ROM exercises three times daily. (B) Sleep on a firm mattress. (C) Apply cool compresses to the back of the neck daily. (D) Wear the cervical collar for at least 2 hours at a time.Answer Explanation: Proper positioning on a firm mattress and bed rest for 1 to 2 days may bring dramatic relief from pain. The patient may need to wear a cervical collar 24 hours a day during the acute phase of pain from a cervical disk herniation. Hot, moist compresses applied to the back of the neck will increase blood flow to the muscles and help relax the spastic muscles.