Author Question: An older patient newly diagnosed with arthritis wants to know what else can be done to help with the ... (Read 93 times)

newbem · **on:** Jul 11, 2018

An older patient newly diagnosed with arthritis wants to know what else can be done to help with the pain. What should the nurse instruct this patient? Standard Text: Select all that apply.

1. Maintain a healthy weight.
2. Avoid positions that increase or cause pain.
3. Avoid eating red meat and processed grains.
4. Alcohol should not be used for pain control.
5. Perform regular gentle exercise like walking every day for 20 minutes.

Question 2

The nurse observes myoclonic movements in an older patient receiving morphine sulfate for pain. What should the nurse do with this finding?

1. Contact the prescribing physician.
2. Observe the patient for more movements.
3. Document the finding in the patient's medical record.
4. Send a blood sample to the lab to analyze the drug level.

dominiqueenicolee · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 11, 2018

Answer to Question 1

1,2,5
Rationale: Weight control reduces pain, especially in older patients.

Answer to Question 2

1
Rationale: Myoclonic jerking movements may be associated with high-dose opioid therapy especially morphine. An alternate opioid should be used if this occurs and the physician needs to be contacted to change the medication order.