Question

A nurse is caring for a patient with osteoarthritis. What is the best recommendation by the nurse to this patient to control chronic pain?

a. Administer analgesics only when needed.
b. Administer analgesics as prescribed on a routine basis.
c. Plan activities with no rest periods to complete the activities quickly.
d. Wear high-heeled shoes to keep the body in alignment.

Answer 1

The nurse's best recommendation to control chronic pain in a patient with osteoarthritis is to administer analgesics as prescribed on a routine basis. Exercise is also important in managing chronic pain from osteoarthritis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best recommendation by the nurse to control chronic pain in a patient with osteoarthritis is to administer analgesics as prescribed on a routine basis. Osteoarthritis symptoms can often be improved with a combination of exercise, weight loss, pain management techniques, and pain medications. Acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) is usually the first type of pain medication prescribed, and if it is inadequate to relieve the pain, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed. Opioids are generally recommended for short-term use only due to the risk of addiction.

Exercise is also important in managing chronic pain from osteoarthritis. Good exercises for OA include swimming, water aerobics, and biking as they put relatively little stress on the joints and help maintain joint mobility and muscle strength.