A patient has fallen and injured her knee.
It is not fractured, but there is considerable swelling and pain.
She asks which over-the-counter analgesic would be best to take for her discomfort.
The nurse tells her that one with NSAID properties would be best.
Which would it be best to take?

Choice A rationale:

Bringing a newspaper or deck of cards does not directly relate to guided imagery, which is a technique used to help patients manage pain through visualization. It's important to provide interventions that align with the patient's expressed preference and pain management goals.

Choice B rationale:

Finding a focal point in the room is not directly related to guided imagery. While it may be helpful for relaxation in some cases, it's not a specific technique for guiding a patient through visualization to manage pain.

Choice C rationale:

Obtaining skin lotion and a towel for a back rub is not related to guided imagery, and it assumes the patient's preference without considering the patient's previously mentioned benefit from guided imagery.

Choice D rationale:

Reading from a script that helps the patient visualize a restful place aligns with the practice of guided imagery. This technique can be effective in helping patients manage pain by redirecting their focus and promoting relaxation. It's a suitable intervention based on the patient's past experience and preferences. .

Choice A rationale:

Asking the patient to rate their pain on a scale of 0-10 is a good initial response to assess the severity of pain. However, it should be followed by a more comprehensive assessment, which may include addressing the patient's concern about pain in the removed limb and providing appropriate interventions.

Choice B rationale:

Telling the patient that it is not possible to experience pain because the limb and nerves were removed is inaccurate and insensitive. This response does not address the patient's reported pain and may be perceived as dismissive.

Choice C rationale:

Telling the patient that they are not experiencing pain is both inaccurate and dismissive of the patient's reported pain. This response does not demonstrate empathy or a patient-centered approach to care.

Choice D rationale:

"I understand you are in pain, please rate your pain on a scale of 0-10, and I will get a mirror to assess the area" is the best response. This response acknowledges the patient's pain, uses a pain assessment scale to quantify the pain, and offers a solution to assess the area with a mirror. It demonstrates empathy and a proactive approach to addressing the patient's concern. .