HESI Basic Care and Comfort Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Study Resource

Taking a hot bath or shower in the morning is an effective recommendation for a client with rheumatoid arthritis to decrease morning stiffness. Warm water can help to relax the muscles and joints, improve circulation, and ease pain in the morning when stiffness is typically at its peak. The heat from the bathing can also enhance the body's range of motion and prepare the joints for daily activities.

Engaging in stretching exercises immediately upon waking, while beneficial, may not provide the immediate relief that warmth does. Cold water swimming is generally not ideal for those experiencing stiffness, as cold can exacerbate tightness and discomfort in the joints. Staying in bed longer may lead to increased stiffness rather than alleviating it, as prolonged inactivity can cause muscles and joints to become stiffer. Therefore, the recommendation of taking a hot bath or shower is the most effective way to reduce morning stiffness for someone with rheumatoid arthritis.