Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 91%
Simulated
A patient is receiving an ice massage for relief of muscle spasms in the neck. The patient complains that the ice is making the pain worse. Most helpful response from the nurse would be:
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: I will stop these cold applications. Ice is typically used to reduce inflammation and numb pain. In this scenario, if the patient is experiencing increased pain with ice massage, it indicates that the cold application is not suitable for them. Stopping the cold application is crucial to prevent further aggravation of the pain. Continuing with the ice massage may exacerbate the muscle spasms and discomfort. It is important for the nurse to respond promptly to the patient's feedback and adjust the treatment accordingly to ensure the patient's comfort and well-being.
Incorrect choices:
A: Providing an ice pack would continue the cold application, worsening the pain.
C: Alternating hot and cold applications may not be appropriate if the patient is experiencing increased pain with ice.
D: Telling the patient to wait for the pain to improve may lead to unnecessary discomfort and potential harm.
Incorrect choices:
A: Providing an ice pack would continue the cold application, worsening the pain.
C: Alternating hot and cold applications may not be appropriate if the patient is experiencing increased pain with ice.
D: Telling the patient to wait for the pain to improve may lead to unnecessary discomfort and potential harm.