The nurse is caring for a client with osteoarthritis, and plans nonpharmacological pain management to include: (Select all that apply.) Standard Text: Select all that apply

Question

1. X-rays.
2. Moderate activity plan.
3. Ice pack to the most painful area.
4. Application of warm moist heat.
5. NSAIDs.

Answer 1

2,4
Rationale: Heat, not ice, can be applied to the area, and moist heat is most effective at reducing pain and inflammation. A common approach by physical therapy includes paraffin wax treatments, where the client inserts the painful joint into warm liquid paraffin, which holds in the heat for an extended period of time and can be very comforting. Joints tend to stiffen and become more painful during periods of inactivity, so a moderate activity plan can help to prevent this. NSAIDs may be administered, but this is pharmacological treatment, not nonpharmacological treatment. X-rays may be performed for diagnosis but do not treat the pain.