A female client with bone metastases secondary to lung cancer is admitted for palliative radiation treatment and pain control. The client is presently experiencing pain that she rates at 9 out of 10. Which of the following nonpharmacological treatments is most likely to be a useful and appropriate supplement to pharmacological analgesia at this point?
A) Teaching the client guided imagery and meditation
B) Initiating neurostimulation
C) Heat therapy
D) Relaxation and distraction

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Given the client's high pain rating, initiating teaching around imagery and meditation is unlikely to be effective or appropriate. Neurostimulation requires implantation and/or placement of internal components, while heat is more likely to address superficial pain or pain caused by muscle tension. Relaxation and distraction would be plausible treatment options for this client.

A Female Client with Bone Metastases Secondary to Lung Cancer