Question

A nurse is assessing a client who has a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Which of the following non-pharmacological interventions should the nurse suggest to the client to reduce pain?

A) Prolonged bed rest.
B) Hot compresses on affected joints.
C) High-impact aerobic exercises.
D) Overuse of joint movements.

Answer 1

The best non-pharmacological intervention to suggest for a client with rheumatoid arthritis to reduce pain is hot compresses on affected joints. This helps alleviate stiffness and pain by promoting blood circulation, complementing other treatments like rest, safe exercise, and weight management.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student has asked about non-pharmacological interventions a nurse could suggest to a client with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to reduce pain. Among the options provided, B) Hot compresses on affected joints is the recommended intervention. This method can help reduce stiffness and pain by promoting blood flow to the inflamed area. RA is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects synovial joints and leads to symptoms like swelling, stiffness, and pain, especially in the hands, feet, and cervical spine. Treatments focus on alleviating these symptoms and may include rest, exercise to maintain muscle strength and joint flexibility, weight management to lessen joint stress, and various medications for inflammation and pain relief. Surgery could be necessary if joint damage is severe. High-impact exercises and overuse of joint movements should be avoided as they can exacerbate symptoms and cause more damage.

Answer 2

Hot compresses improve blood flow, reduce stiffness, and soothe sore muscles without exacerbating joint inflammation or causing muscle weakness.Thus the correct option is B.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hot compresses on affected joints can help alleviate pain in rheumatoid arthritis by improving blood flow, reducing stiffness, and soothing sore muscles. Heat application promotes relaxation, easing the discomfort associated with inflamed joints. Unlike prolonged bed rest, which can lead to muscle weakness and joint stiffness, hot compresses offer a non-invasive, targeted approach to managing pain. High-impact aerobic exercises can exacerbate joint inflammation, while overuse of joint movements might strain the already compromised joints in rheumatoid arthritis, leading to increased discomfort.

Heat therapy works by dilating blood vessels, increasing circulation, and delivering nutrients to the affected area while reducing pain signals to the brain. The improved blood flow can also assist in the removal of inflammatory byproducts, potentially reducing the severity of symptoms. In contrast, prolonged bed rest can cause deconditioning and muscle atrophy, worsening joint pain and stiffness over time. Hot compresses serve as a safe, accessible, and cost-effective method to manage pain without the risks associated with excessive joint movement or inactivity.

It's crucial to emphasize to the client the proper technique for applying hot compresses and to use them intermittently, allowing breaks to prevent burns or skin damage. This non-pharmacological intervention can significantly contribute to pain management and improve the client's quality of life by offering relief from the discomfort associated with rheumatoid arthritis.Thus the correct option is B.