A nurse in a clinic is talking with a client who has a new diagnosis of osteoarthritis. The nurse should anticipate that the client will require teaching about which of the following medications?

Choice A reason:

While explaining discharge instructions is an important part of patient education and ensuring safety after leaving the hospital, it is not the immediate priority. The nurse must first address any potential medical issues that could compromise the patient's health, such as circulation and nerve function in the affected limb.

Choice B reason:

Applying an ice pack to the casted leg can help reduce swelling and provide comfort to the client. This is often recommended for the first 24 to 72 hours after the cast is applied, especially if the cast is on a leg. However, this is secondary to assessing the neurovascular status of the limb.

Choice C reason:

Performing a neurovascular assessment is the priority action for the nurse. This assessment includes checking for sensation, warmth, capillary refill, pulses, and movement. It is crucial to identify any signs of compromised blood flow or nerve injury early to prevent further complications.

Choice D reason:

Providing reassurance to the client and parents is important for emotional support and can help alleviate anxiety. However, the nurse's immediate priority is to ensure the physical well-being of the client, which includes performing a neurovascular assessment to detect any urgent issues.

Choice A reason:
Difficulty with abduction of the arm at the shoulder is a common finding in clients with a rotator cuff injury. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and facilitate its movement. When these muscles or tendons are injured, movements such as lifting the arm away from the body (abduction) can become painful and difficult.

Choice B reason:
Alteration in the contour of the joint is not typically associated with a rotator cuff injury. This finding is more indicative of conditions that cause changes in the bone structure, such as arthritis or dislocation.

Choice C reason:
A positive Tinel's sign is used to diagnose nerve compression or nerve damage, particularly in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. It is not a test used to assess rotator cuff injuries.

Choice D reason:
A negative drop arm test would suggest that the client does not have a rotator cuff injury. The drop arm test is performed by having the client lift the arm to 90 degrees and then slowly lower it. If the client can control the motion and lower the arm smoothly, the test is negative. A positive drop arm test, where the client cannot control the descent of the arm, would indicate a rotator cuff injury.