A nurse is caring for a client experiencing a severe flare-up of rheumatoid arthritis. Which of the following pharmacological interventions should the nurse prioritize to manage this client's symptoms?

Apply ice to the affected joints to reduce inflammation,

Administer methotrexate as scheduled to slow disease progression.

Recommend physical therapy immediately to strengthen the muscles around the joints.

Encourage the use of over-the-counter NSAIDs exclusively for pain relief.