Question

A 72-year-old man tells the nurse that he cannot perform most of the physical activities he could do 5 years ago because of overall joint aches and pains. What can the nurse do to assist the patient to prevent further deconditioning and decrease the risk for developing musculoskeletal problems?

a. Limit weight-bearing exercise to prevent stress on fragile bones and possible hip fractures.
b. Advise the patient to avoid the use of canes and walkers because they increase dependence on ambulation aids.
c. Advise the patient to increase his activity by more frequently climbing stairs in buildings and other environments with steps.
d. Discuss use of over-the-counter (OTC) medications to decrease inflammation and pain so that exercise can be maintained.

Answer 1

To help the elderly man, a nurse should recommend low-impact exercises to maintain mobility and muscle strength, use of OTC medications for pain management, weight control to lessen joint stress, and possibly the use of mobility aids. High-impact exercises and complete avoidance of physical activity are discouraged.

Step-by-step explanation:

To assist the 72-year-old man with joint aches and prevent further deconditioning and musculoskeletal problems, a nurse can discuss a personalized exercise plan that includes low-impact exercises such as swimming, biking, or water aerobics. These activities help maintain joint mobility, reduce joint stress, and strengthen the muscles around the joints. Additionally, the nurse could advise the man about the benefits of using over-the-counter (OTC) medications to manage inflammation and pain, thus facilitating regular exercise. Weight management should be discussed as maintaining a normal, healthy weight reduces the force exerted on joints. Moreover, using mobility aids like canes can also be beneficial as they distribute weight and improve stability, but it is essential to respect pain and avoid activities that cause significant discomfort.

It is important to note that avoiding physical activity altogether or limiting weight-bearing exercise excessively may not be helpful, as it can lead to further joint problems and decreased mobility. Instead, focusing on tailored, safe, and sustainable physical activities can improve the man's quality of life and mobility. The nurse should also emphasize that although osteoarthritis is common among seniors, it is not inevitable, and good joint health practices can greatly reduce the risk of developing it.