Which treatment is the best choice for a child with rheumatic fever to manage pain and inflammation?

The best choice for managing pain and inflammation in a child with rheumatic fever is to administer aspirin as ordered. Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that effectively reduces pain and inflammation associated with rheumatic fever, which can cause arthritic symptoms. It is particularly beneficial in this context because it not only alleviates discomfort but also addresses the underlying inflammation caused by the autoimmune response associated with rheumatic fever.

In the management of rheumatic fever, particularly with its associated symptoms like arthritis, the appropriate use of aspirin can help improve the child's overall comfort and enable better mobility. This is a critical aspect of treatment since children experiencing significant joint pain may struggle with daily activities.

Other management strategies, such as applying heat to swollen joints or using cold packs, may provide temporary relief but do not have the same level of efficacy in addressing the underlying inflammation caused by rheumatic fever. Encouraging stretching exercises might be beneficial in promoting mobility and flexibility but it does not directly manage pain or inflammation. Therefore, while these options can contribute to overall care, they do not replace the necessity of using aspirin in this scenario.