What is the primary purpose of giving a back rub to a client?

The primary purpose of giving a back rub to a client is to promote comfort and relieve pain. Back rubs are often used in healthcare settings as a part of patient care to enhance the physical and emotional well-being of the client. This tactile stimulation can help to relax muscles, improve circulation, and reduce tension, leading to a greater sense of comfort. Additionally, the act of providing a back rub can create an atmosphere of intimacy and care, which may help the client feel more secure and cared for.

While other options suggest different intentions, they do not align with the therapeutic and holistic practices that back rubs are intended to support. For instance, the idea of making the client uncomfortable contradicts the fundamental goal of providing comfort and soothing care. Distracting the client may occur as a secondary benefit, but it is not the primary aim. Evaluating the client's mental state is essential in nursing care, but it is typically not achieved through physical comfort measures such as back rubs, which focus on physical well-being rather than psychological assessment.