A Patient Is One Day Status Post Lumbar Laminectomy With Fusion. During Gait Training, Numbness Persists. What Is the MOST Immediate Action?

• A. Inform The Patient That This Is Common Postoperatively
• B. Instruct The Patient In The Use Of a Rolling Walker
• C. Discontinue Ambulation
• D. Contact The Patient's Surgeon

Answer: (A)

Numbness after a lumbar laminectomy with fusion in the early postoperative period is common and often due to nerve irritation, edema, or residual effects of anesthesia from surgery. This sensation may persist for days to weeks as healing progresses. The most appropriate immediate action is to acknowledge the symptom and reassure the patient that this can be normal after surgery, while continuing gait training with careful safety measures. Monitor for any red flags—such as new or worsening weakness, loss of motor function, or changes in bowel or bladder control—and if those occur, escalate to the surgeon. In this moment, informing the patient that this is common postoperatively is the best immediate step.