Question

The nurse instructs the patient about skin massage and the gate-control theory of pain. Which of the following statements would be appropriate for the nurse to include for patient understanding of the nonpharmacological pain-relief methods? a) The gate control mechanism opens so all the stimuli pass through to the brain. b) This is a technique to prevent the painful stimuli from entering the brain. c) The gate control mechanism is located at the pain site. d) Pain perception is decreased if anxiety is present.

Answer 1

The appropriate statement for patient understanding of nonpharmacological pain-relief methods is option b) This is a technique to prevent the painful stimuli from entering the brain.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate statement for the nurse to include for patient understanding of nonpharmacological pain-relief methods is option b) This is a technique to prevent the painful stimuli from entering the brain.

The gate-control theory of pain suggests that the perception of pain can be modulated by the gating mechanism in the central nervous system. When the gate is closed, it prevents painful stimuli from reaching the brain, resulting in pain relief. Therefore, techniques such as skin massage can help to close the gate and prevent the painful stimuli from entering the brain, providing pain relief.

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