Nursing Interventions: Fibromyalgia Syndrome

1. Monitor the patient’s sensory disturbances and level of pain.
2. Monitor for any adverse reactions to the medication given.
3. Exercise can be helpful in maintaining muscle conditioning, improving energy, and possibly, improving sleep quality.
4. Teach the patient how to do stretches safely and effectively and encourage her to perform them regularly.
5. The deconditioned fibromyalgia syndrome patient may experience increases muscle pain with the initiation of a new exercise program.
6. Encourage the patient not to stop exercising altogether because even a limited amount of exercise each day may be beneficial.
7. A bedtime dose of tricyclic antidepressant can cause morning drowsiness in some patients. Sometimes taking the dose 1 to 2 hours before bedtime can improve sleep benefits while reducing this morning after effect.
8. A daily stretching program can help preserve range of motion in the neck, shoulders, and hips.
9. Administer medications as ordered and monitor for effects.
10. Provide emotional support to the patient and family.