The nurse reviews the medication orders for an older patient with arthritis in both hips who is complaining of level 3 (0 to 10 scale)hip pain while ambulating.Which medication should the nurse use as initial therapy?

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Acetaminophen is the best first-choice medication.The principle of "start low,go slow" is used to guide therapy when treating older adults because the ability to metabolize medications is decreased and the likelihood of medication interactions is increased.Nonopioid analgesics are used first for mild to moderate pain,although opioids may be used later.Aspirin and the NSAIDs are associated with a high incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding in older patients.

The Nurse Reviews the Medication Orders for an Older Patient