A hip replacement patient post-op with pain refuses ambulation. What is the best nursing suggestion?

• A. Take pain meds to have more energy to do exercises
• B. Walk without pain control
• C. Ignore the pain and push through
• D. Rest and not exercise

Answer: (A)

Pain control is the key to enabling early, safe ambulation after a hip replacement. When pain is managed effectively, the patient can tolerate and participate in prescribed exercises and walking, which helps prevent complications like blood clots, pneumonia, and muscle weakness. By prioritizing analgesia so mobility becomes tolerable, you support rehabilitation and safer movement. Walking with uncontrolled pain or ignoring pain, or choosing rest without exercise, would hinder recovery and increase risks. Therefore, providing appropriate pain relief so ambulation and exercises can proceed is the best approach.