Final answer:
Medication education for osteoarthritis should cover the careful use of pain medications, the importance of reporting gastrointestinal side effects, and avoiding prolonged bed rest. Emphasis on low-impact exercise and weight management can help alleviate symptoms, and pain management techniques should prioritize safety and minimize risks associated with NSAIDs and opioids.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse providing medication education for a client with osteoarthritis should include several important points. Firstly, it is crucial to avoid overusing pain medications such as NSAIDs and opioids due to the risks of gastrointestinal side effects, addiction, and other serious complications. Secondly, clients should be taught to report any gastrointestinal side effects, as medications like NSAIDs can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Lastly, it's important to emphasize that while low-impact exercise and weight management can help alleviate symptoms, prolonged bed rest is not recommended as it can worsen osteoarthritis symptoms.
It is beneficial to know that over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen and NSAIDs, including aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, are typically used first. When necessary, prescription NSAIDs or opioids may be considered, but close supervision by a healthcare provider is required to manage risks. Alternative treatments to medication, such as low-impact exercise, can also reduce pain and improve joint function in osteoarthritis.