The nurse is talking to a patient with chronic pain secondary to permanent joint damage from rheumatoid arthritis about developing a pain management program. Which goal identified by the patient would be realistic for the program?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Given the chronic nature of pain secondary to permanent joint damage from rheumatoid arthritis, complete elimination of pain (A) or returning to a pre-condition level of activity (B) may not be realistic. A realistic goal is to manage the pain to a level that allows the patient to perform daily activities (C), acknowledging that some level of pain may still be present. While leading a "normal life" (D) is a desirable outcome, the definition of "normal" may need to adjust to accommodate the chronic pain condition, making (C) the most specific and achievable goal.

The Nurse Is Talking to a Patient with Chronic Pain