A nurse is assisting the patient to perform isometric exercises. ...

[PhilipSeeMore]

A nurse is assisting the patient to perform isometric exercises. Which action will the nurse take?
 
  a. Encourage wearing tight shoes.
  b. Set the pace for the exercise session.
  c. Stop the exercise if pain is experienced.
  d. Force muscles or joints to go just beyond resistance.

Question 2

The nurse is developing a plan of care for a patient diagnosed with activity intolerance. Which strategy will the nurse use to provide the best chance of maintaining patient compliance?
 
  a. Performing 20 minutes of aerobic exercise 7 days a week with 10-minute warm-up and cool-down periods
  b. Instructing the patient to use an exercise log to record day, time, duration, and responses to exercise activity
  c. Stressing the harm of not exercising by getting the patient to take responsibility for current health status
  d. Arranging for the patient to join a gym that takes self-pay rather than insurance

[k2629]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Instruct the patient to stop the activity if pain, fatigue, or discomfort is experienced. Assess for pain, shortness of breath, or a change in vital signs; if present, stop the exercise. Let each patient move at his or her own pace. Assess for joint limitations, and do not force a muscle or a joint during exercise. Teach patient to wear comfortable shoes and clothing for exercise.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Keeping a log may increase adherence to an exercise prescription. Recommended frequency of aerobic exercise is 3 to 5 times per week or every other day for approximately 30 minutes. Focusing on the harm of not exercising is usually counterproductive. Instead, the nurse should instruct the patient about the physiological benefits of a regular exercise program. Developing a plan of exercise that the patient may perform at home may improve compliance.