An 81-year-old female admitted to rehabilitation after knee replacement is very anxious and refuses to get out of bed, stating it’s too painful. What is the best course of action?

• A. Increase activity tolerance gradually
• B. Offer pain meds administer meds and check back in 20 minutes
• C. Encourage more rest
• D. Do nothing

Answer: (B)

Pain control is essential for starting rehabilitation after knee replacement, especially in an older adult who is anxious and reluctant to move. When pain is not well managed, the patient’s fear and discomfort can prevent participation in therapy and slow recovery.

Giving analgesia appropriate for post-op knee pain and then reassessing in about 20 minutes targets the immediate barrier to mobilization: relief of pain so the patient can participate in movement and therapy. This approach also provides a concrete plan to evaluate effectiveness and adjust as needed, which supports progressing activity safely rather than leaving the patient in pain or in bed.

Delaying pain relief or insisting on more rest would keep the patient immobilized and hinder rehabilitation, and doing nothing is unsafe and inappropriate. Remember to monitor for side effects of analgesics in the elderly and ensure safety after administration.