A client with a broken arm has had ice placed on it for 20 minutes. A short time after the ice was removed, the client reports that the effect has worn off and requests pain medication, which cannot be given yet
What actions by the nurse are most appropriate? (Select all that apply.)
a.
Ask for a physical therapy consult.
b.
Educate the client on cold therapy.
c.
Offer to provide a heating pad.
d.
Repeat the ice application.
e.
Teach the client relaxation techniques.
ANS: B, D, E
Nonpharmacologic pain management can be very effective. These modalities include ice, heat, pressure, massage, vibration, and transcutaneous electrical stimulation. Since the client is unable to have more pain medication at this time, the nurse should focus on nonpharmacologic modalities. First the client must be educated; the effects of ice wear off quickly once it is removed, and the client may have had unrealistic expectations. The nurse can repeat the ice application and teach relaxation techniques if the client is open to them. A physical therapy consult will not help relieve acute pain. Heat would not be a good choice for this type of injury.
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