A 62-year-old female with osteoarthritis asks the nurse how she can ease her pain and discomfort. The nurse should include which of the following in the discharge plan for the client?
incorporate moderate exercise at least three times per week
Numbers 1, 4, and 5 are correct.
Clients with osteoarthritis should try to maintain a healthy weight; this has been shown to decrease joint pain and reduces stiffness. Using heat will help to ease stiffness, and moderate exercise three times a week is recommended. High-impact exercise should be avoided as it risks harming bone and tissue. Acetaminophen, not aspirin, is the first-choice drug to reduce osteoarthritis-related pain.
