A client newly diagnosed with osteoarthritis expresses concern about potential complications.
Which complication should the nurse explain as a result of osteoarthritis?

Choice A rationale:

"Joint deformity is not a common complication of osteoarthritis." This statement is inaccurate.

Joint deformities can occur in osteoarthritis, especially when the disease progresses.

It is essential to provide accurate information to the client.

Choice B rationale:

"There are surgical options available to correct joint deformities." While there are surgical options available for joint deformities, this statement does not directly address the client's concern about the risk of developing joint deformities due to osteoarthritis.

Choice C rationale:

"Ongoing joint damage can lead to deformities like bow-leggedness or knock-knees." This is the correct choice.

It addresses the client's concern by explaining that ongoing joint damage in osteoarthritis can indeed lead to joint deformities, such as bow-leggedness or knock-knees.

Providing this information helps the client understand the potential consequences of their condition.

Choice D rationale:

"Joint deformities are only seen in patients with rheumatoid arthritis." This statement is incorrect because joint deformities can occur in both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

It does not provide accurate information about the client's specific concern.

Osteoarthritis is indeed more common in older individuals, but it is not primarily due to genetic factors.

While genetics can play a role, the primary risk factor for osteoarthritis in older adults is wear and tear on the joints over time.

Choice B rationale:

Excessive weight is a well-established risk factor for osteoarthritis.

The rationale behind this is that carrying excess body weight puts additional stress on the joints, particularly the weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.

This increased mechanical stress can lead to the degeneration of joint cartilage and the development of osteoarthritis.

Choice C rationale:

Osteoarthritis can be exacerbated by joint trauma, such as fractures, but it is not primarily caused by trauma.

The degeneration of joint cartilage and the development of osteoarthritis typically occur over time due to various factors, including mechanical stress and inflammation.

Choice D rationale:

While the exact cause of osteoarthritis is not fully understood, it is not accurate to say that it is entirely unknown.

Osteoarthritis is believed to result from a combination of factors, including genetics, aging, joint injury, and mechanical stress.

Understanding these risk factors can help in its prevention and management.