A client with osteoarthritis presents with joint pain that worsens with weight-bearing activities and improves with rest. Which of the following clinical manifestations is described?

Heberden's nodes are bony enlargements that occur at the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints of the fingers and are a characteristic finding in osteoarthritis. Warm, swollen, and tender joints are typical of inflammatory arthritis conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, not osteoarthritis. Symmetrical joint involvement is more common in systemic autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, not osteoarthritis. A positive Babinski reflex is a neurological finding and is not related to the diagnosis of osteoarthritis.

a. Warm, swollen, and tender joints are typical of inflammatory arthritis conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, not osteoarthritis.
b. Symmetrical joint involvement is more common in systemic autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, not osteoarthritis.
d. A positive Babinski reflex is a neurological finding and is not related to the diagnosis of osteoarthritis.

One of the main nursing considerations for a client with osteoarthritis is pain management. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to provide pain relief and reduce inflammation in individuals with osteoarthritis.

Incorrect responses:
a. Encouraging high-impact exercises is not recommended for clients with osteoarthritis. High-impact activities can cause additional stress on the affected joints and worsen the symptoms.
c. Promoting weight loss is important for overweight or obese clients with osteoarthritis to reduce joint stress. However, it is not applicable for clients with a BMI within the normal range.
d. Advising the client to avoid any form of physical activity is not recommended. Regular low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, are beneficial for individuals with osteoarthritis.