RN Exam Practice
Basic Care and ComfortQuestion 1531 of 2368

A client who had knee surgery is reluctant to ambulate because of pain. Which nursing action is best?

  1. Delay ambulation until the client reports no pain
  2. Give pain medication after the session ends
  3. Give pain medication before the physical therapy session
  4. Encourage the client to tolerate the pain without medication
Show answer

Correct answer: Give pain medication before the physical therapy session

Medication for anticipated pain is given before therapy. Nonpharmacologic measures such as repositioning or heat and cold can also help.

Source: Nursing Fundamentals, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2024), Mobility: Planning Interventions. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Basic Care and Comfort"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026