Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

For a patient with acute knee pain after sports, what is the recommended initial management step?

1. Immediate MRI

2. Rest and ice application

3. Compression with tape

4. Referral to physical therapy

The correct answer is: Rest and ice application

The recommended initial management step for a patient experiencing acute knee pain after engaging in sports is rest and ice application. This approach follows the RICE principle (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), which is widely recognized for managing acute injuries such as sprains and strains. By resting the affected knee, the patient can help prevent further injury and allow the body to initiate its healing process. Ice application is crucial as it serves to decrease swelling and numb the area, thereby alleviating pain. Applying ice shortly after injury can help minimize inflammation and provide symptomatic relief, which is particularly beneficial in the acute phase of injury. While other strategies, such as compression and elevation, also play a vital role in managing knee pain, the immediate focus should be on rest and ice to protect the knee and manage pain effectively right after the injury occurs. MRI imaging and referral to physical therapy are more appropriate for subsequent steps after initial assessment and conservative management have occurred, making them less relevant in the immediate management of acute symptoms.