A nurse is assessing a patient with osteoarthritis.
The patient reports joint pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
What nursing intervention is appropriate for this patient?

Administering a muscle relaxant.

Encouraging increased physical activity.

Providing rest and joint protection strategies.

Suggesting the use of a heating pad.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale:

Administering a muscle relaxant is not the appropriate intervention for a patient with osteoarthritis who experiences joint pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.

Muscle relaxants are typically used for muscle spasms, not for osteoarthritis pain management.

Choice B rationale:

Encouraging increased physical activity may worsen the patient's joint pain in osteoarthritis, as it can exacerbate the symptoms.

Osteoarthritis is characterized by joint degeneration, and excessive physical activity can lead to further joint damage and pain.

Choice C rationale:

Providing rest and joint protection strategies is the most appropriate nursing intervention for a patient with osteoarthritis who experiences joint pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.

Rest helps reduce stress on the affected joints, and joint protection strategies, such as using assistive devices or wearing joint-supporting braces, can help alleviate pain and prevent further damage.

Choice D rationale:

Suggesting the use of a heating pad may provide some temporary relief for joint pain, but it does not address the underlying issue of joint protection and rest, which is more important in managing osteoarthritis symptoms.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Blood clot formation is not a common complication of osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis primarily affects the joints and cartilage, not the vascular system.

Choice B rationale:

Muscle atrophy can occur in individuals with advanced osteoarthritis, especially if joint pain and stiffness limit physical activity.

However, it is not a direct complication of the condition itself.

Choice C rationale:

Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, can develop as a complication of osteoarthritis.

These bony outgrowths can form in response to ongoing joint damage and cartilage breakdown.

Choice D rationale:

Respiratory distress is not a typical complication of osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis primarily affects the musculoskeletal system, and respiratory problems are unrelated to the condition.

Questions

A. Maintaining a healthy weight. B. Avoiding all forms of physical activity. C. Engaging in regular physical activity. D. Smoking regularly. E. Practicing joint protection techniques.

Correct Answer is ["A","E"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

"Maintaining a healthy weight." Maintaining a healthy weight is an essential preventive strategy for osteoarthritis.

Excess weight can put added stress on joints, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis and worsening symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

"Avoiding all forms of physical activity." This statement is not appropriate because physical activity, when done correctly, can actually help prevent osteoarthritis or manage its symptoms.

Avoiding all physical activity is not a recommended strategy.

Choice C rationale:

"Engaging in regular physical activity." This is the correct choice.

Regular physical activity, such as low-impact exercises and strength training, can help prevent osteoarthritis and improve joint health.

It also helps in managing the condition if already present.

Choice D rationale:

"Smoking regularly." Smoking is not a preventive strategy for osteoarthritis, and it can have numerous adverse health effects.

It is not recommended as a part of osteoarthritis prevention.

Choice E rationale:

"Practicing joint protection techniques." This is another correct choice.

Joint protection techniques, such as using assistive devices, maintaining proper posture, and avoiding excessive joint stress, are essential for preventing further joint damage in individuals with osteoarthritis.

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A nurse is assessing a patient with osteoarthritis.The patient reports joint pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.What nursing intervention is appropriate for this patient?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

(Select all that apply): A nurse is discussing prevention strategies for osteoarthritis with a group of clients. Which strategies should the nurse include in the discussion?

Correct Answer is ["A","E"]

Explanation

A client with osteoarthritis experiences crepitus, a grinding or cracking sensation when moving the joint.What nursing action is appropriate for this client?

A nurse is providing education to a client with osteoarthritis about weight management.What should the nurse explain regarding the importance of weight management in managing osteoarthritis symptoms?

A client with osteoarthritis asks the nurse about the primary treatment options.What should the nurse include in the response?

A client with osteoarthritis complains of stiffness in the affected joint, especially after periods of inactivity.What education should the nurse provide to address this symptom?

A nurse is assessing a patient with osteoarthritis.What aspects should the nurse include in the assessment?

(Select all that apply):A nurse is assessing a patient with osteoarthritis.Which interventions should the nurse consider for managing this patient's condition? Select all that apply.

A client with osteoarthritis inquires about the pathophysiology of the condition.Which statement accurately describes the initial process of osteoarthritis development?

(Select all that apply): A nurse is caring for a patient with osteoarthritis. Which nursing assessments should be included in the plan of care for this patient? Select all that apply.

A nurse is assessing a patient with osteoarthritis.
The patient reports joint pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
What nursing intervention is appropriate for this patient?