The nurse is assisting a patient with ways to reduce the severity of the monthly

2,3,5 -- Treatment plans that the woman with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) may find helpful focus on diet, exercise, relaxation, and stress management. Sodium should be restricted to minimize fluid retention. Caffeine restriction reduces irritability. Exercise is beneficial but rest is also necessary. Techniques for relaxation and stress management include deep abdominal breathing, meditation, muscle relaxation, and guided imagery. Heat, not ice, relieves muscle spasms and dilates blood vessels, which increases the blood supply to the pelvis and uterine muscles.