A nurse is caring for a client following a total knee arthroplasty. The client reports a pain level of 6 on a pain scale of 0 to 10. Which of the following interventions should the nurse take?

Postoperative care following a total knee arthroplasty focuses on pain control, inflammation reduction, prevention of complications, and early mobilization. Pain at moderate levels (e.g., 6/10) is expected but requires prompt intervention to promote comfort and participation in recovery activities. Nonpharmacological measures such as cryotherapy are commonly used alongside prescribed analgesics. Proper interventions help reduce swelling and improve joint function. A. Performing range-of-motion exercises at a pain level of 6/10 is not appropriate as it may exacerbate pain and inflammation in the immediate postoperative period. While early mobilization is important, it should be done gradually and typically after adequate pain control has been achieved. Forcing movement at this stage may increase tissue trauma and delay healing. B. Placing pillows under the client’s knee is contraindicated after total knee arthroplasty because it promotes knee flexion contractures. Maintaining knee extension is essential to ensure proper joint alignment and optimal functional recovery. Instead, pillows should be placed under the heel to support extension without compromising joint positioning. C. Applying an ice pack to the client’s knee is appropriate because cryotherapy reduces inflammation, swelling, and pain by causing vasoconstriction and slowing nerve conduction. This helps improve comfort and supports early rehabilitation efforts. It is a standard nonpharmacological intervention following orthopedic surgery. D. Gently massaging the area around the incision is contraindicated in the immediate postoperative period. Massage may disrupt the surgical site, increase the risk of infection, and cause tissue damage or bleeding. The incision area should be protected and only handled using sterile technique when necessary for wound care.