A nurse is caring for a client who has degenerative disc disease.
Which of the following assessment findings should the nurse understand might develop with this condition? (Select All that Apply)

Choice A rationale

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychological treatment that can be effective for a range of conditions, including chronic pain. However, it may not be the most suitable for acute pain management at home following a knee injury. CBT usually involves working with a trained therapist over multiple sessions, which may not be practical or immediately beneficial in this context.
Choice B rationale
Intermittent ice compress is a highly recommended non-pharmacological method for managing acute pain, especially following a knee injury. The cold temperature from the ice can help numb the area, reducing pain and inflammation. It’s a simple, cost-effective, and readily available method that can be easily applied at home.
Choice C rationale
Phototherapy, also known as light therapy, involves exposure to specific wavelengths of light using polychromatic polarised light, lasers, light-emitting diodes, fluorescent lamps, or dichroic lamps. While it has been used to treat conditions like seasonal affective disorder, skin conditions, and neonatal jaundice, its effectiveness in managing acute pain following a knee injury is not well-established.
Choice D rationale
Walking on a treadmill might not be suitable for a patient experiencing acute pain following a knee injury. Physical activity is generally beneficial for overall health and certain types of chronic pain. However, in the case of an acute knee injury, rest and immobilization are often recommended initially to allow the injured tissues to heal.

Choice A rationale
While improved rehabilitation outcomes and temporary behavior changes can occur after a neurological injury, they are not typically considered psychosocial changes. Psychosocial changes often involve alterations in the way individuals perceive, interact with, and navigate their social environments.
Choice B rationale
Improved mood stability and temper control are not typically associated with the aftermath of a neurological injury. In fact, individuals may experience mood swings, irritability, and difficulties with emotional regulation.
Choice C rationale
Changes to social cognition and challenges to inhibitory control are indeed possible psychosocial changes a client might have after sustaining a neurological injury. Social cognition involves understanding and interpreting social cues, which can be affected by brain injury.
Challenges to inhibitory control can lead to impulsive behavior and difficulties in social situations.
Choice D rationale
While a sense of purpose, improved motivation, and stable relationships can be part of a successful recovery process, they are not typically direct outcomes of a neurological injury. In

fact, relationships may be strained and motivation can be affected due to the physical and emotional challenges associated with such an injury.