After assessing that a client with rheumatoid arthritis experiences pain with movement, what is the initial recommendation?

Advising a rest period followed by activity is a key approach for managing pain in clients with rheumatoid arthritis. Initially, when a patient experiences pain during movement, it is crucial to allow them some time to rest to reduce inflammation and limit stress on the joints. Resting helps to alleviate acute pain and can prevent further damage or discomfort.

Once a rest period has been implemented, gradually incorporating activity is beneficial. Gentle movements can help maintain joint function and prevent stiffness over time. This balance between rest and activity is essential for managing rheumatoid arthritis, as excessive movement can exacerbate pain, while too much rest can lead to increased stiffness and reduced mobility.

In this context, other options may be useful as adjunct measures, but they do not address the immediate need to manage pain and prevent further joint stress as effectively as the recommended strategy. For example, heat can soothe pain, and pain medications can be helpful, but they do not first focus on the critical need for rest when a patient is experiencing pain during movement. Physical therapy can also be an effective long-term strategy, but initiating therapy without first addressing immediate pain management through rest may not provide the necessary relief to facilitate future activity.