A nurse is caring for a client who is 4 hr postoperative following a total knee arthroplasty. The client reports a pain level of 3 on a scale from 0 to 10. Which of the following nonpharmacological pain management therapies should the nurse recommend?

A. Apply lidocaine gel around the incision: Topical lidocaine is generally used for localized superficial pain, not for deep postoperative pain following major joint surgery. Its effectiveness for a knee arthroplasty incision is limited. B. Attach a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit around the incision: TENS units can help with some types of pain but are more effective for chronic musculoskeletal pain rather than acute postoperative pain. C. Place a cold pack over the incision: Cold therapy reduces inflammation, swelling, and pain in the immediate postoperative period. It is a safe and effective nonpharmacological intervention for mild to moderate pain following knee arthroplasty. D. Assist the client for a walk in the hallway: Early ambulation is important for preventing complications and promoting recovery, but it may initially increase pain when the client is only 4 hours post-surgery. Cold therapy is more appropriate for immediate pain relief.