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:

Bradycardia, a slow heart rate, is not typically associated with acute pain. In response to pain, the body usually experiences increased heart rate (tachycardia) as part of the stress response.

Choice B rationale:

A decreased respiratory rate is not an expected finding in response to acute pain. Acute pain often leads to increased respiratory rate as the body attempts to manage the pain and stress.

Choice C rationale:

Hypoglycemia, a low blood sugar level, is not a typical physiological response to acute pain. Acute pain is more likely to induce a release of stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can lead to increased blood sugar levels.

Choice D rationale:

Hypertension, or elevated blood pressure, is an expected physiological response to acute pain. Pain activates the body's stress response, leading to increased sympathetic nervous system activity, which can cause vasoconstriction and increased blood pressure. This response helps prepare the body to cope with the pain and stress. Monitoring blood pressure in a client reporting acute pain is essential to assess the impact of pain and determine appropriate pain management strategies.

Choice A rationale:

Using heavy pressure on the cold pack for greater effectiveness is not the correct approach when applying a cold pack to an injured area. Applying excessive pressure can lead to tissue damage, frostbite, and can be uncomfortable for the patient. Cold packs should be applied with gentle, even pressure to avoid complications.

Choice B rationale:

Leaving the cold pack in place for over 30 minutes at a time is not recommended. Prolonged exposure to cold can also cause tissue damage, including frostbite. It is generally advised to limit cold pack applications to 20-30 minutes at a time to prevent complications.

Choice C rationale:

Preparing to apply heat instead if cold is not effective is not the appropriate action in this scenario. When a healthcare provider orders a cold pack application, it is essential to follow the prescribed treatment plan. Heat should only be considered if it is specifically ordered as an alternative treatment.

Choice D rationale:

Placing a towel between the pack and the skin is the correct approach to prevent patient injury when applying a cold pack. This helps to protect the skin from direct contact with the cold pack, reducing the risk of frostbite or cold-related injuries. It ensures a barrier between the cold pack and the patient's skin, providing a safe and comfortable application.