Impaired physical mobility is a major nursing diagnosis for patients with osteoarthritis (OA). Which intervention would be most effective in addressing this patient's limitation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Assessing the patient's range of motion of affected joints is the most effective intervention for addressing impaired physical mobility in a patient with OA. This allows for the planning and implementation of appropriate interventions, such as exercise and physical therapy, to improve mobility and reduce pain. Encouraging the patient to assume responsibility for personal self-care needs may also be helpful, but alone it is not as effective as assessing range of motion. Encouraging high activity levels or managing pain with narcotics may not be appropriate and could actually exacerbate physical limitations.

Impaired Physical Mobility Is a Major Nursing Diagnosis for Patients