A nonpharmacological approach that the nurse may implement for patients who are experiencing pain that focuses on diverting the patient's attention away from the pain sensation by promoting pleasurable and meaningful stimuli is:

Question

a. massage.
b. heat/cold.
c. guided imagery.
d. distraction.

Answer 1

D
Distraction is a technique that diverts an individual's attention away from the pain sensation. By introducing meaningful stimuli, the nurse helps the patient refocus attention. Distraction directs a patient's attention to something else and thus can reduce awareness of pain and even increase tolerance. A proper massage not only blocks the perception of pain impulses but also helps relax muscle tension and spasm that otherwise might increase pain. Massage hastens the elimination of wastes stored in muscles, improves oxygenation of tissues, and stimulates the relaxation response in the nervous system. Heat produces vasodilation, reduced blood viscosity, reduced muscle tension, and increased tissue metabolism. Heat helps relieve muscle spasms and joint stiffness. Cold produces vasoconstriction, reduced cell metabolism, and increased blood viscosity. Cold is effective for inflamed joints and muscles. The goal of imagery is to have the patient use one or several of the senses to create an image of the desired result. This image creates a positive psychophysiological response. Guided imagery can be used as a distraction technique.