A nurse is providing education to a group of individuals at risk for osteoarthritis.
Which risk factor can the nurse emphasize as being primarily associated with the development of this condition?

Choice A rationale:

"You should avoid using any pain medications to prevent addiction." This statement is not appropriate because it promotes the avoidance of pain medications, which may be necessary for managing pain in osteoarthritis.

Opioid addiction is a concern, but it is not the only option for pain management.

Patients should be educated about the appropriate use of medications and the importance of following their prescribed treatment plan.

Choice B rationale:

"It's important to adhere to your prescribed medications for pain relief." This is the correct choice.

It emphasizes the importance of adhering to the prescribed pain medications, which is crucial for effective pain management in osteoarthritis.

Non-adherence can lead to inadequate pain control and decreased quality of life.

Choice C rationale:

"You should apply heat and cold therapy simultaneously for the best results." This statement is incorrect as it suggests using heat and cold therapy simultaneously, which may not be the most effective approach for osteoarthritis pain.

Heat and cold therapies are often used alternately, depending on the type of pain and inflammation.

Choice D rationale:

"You don't need to worry about managing pain; it will improve on its own." This statement is inappropriate as it downplays the importance of pain management in osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition, and pain management is essential for improving the patient's comfort and quality of life.

Administering nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief is a suitable intervention for managing osteoarthritis.

NSAIDs can help reduce pain and inflammation in affected joints.

Choice B rationale:

Encouraging weight loss and a healthy diet to reduce stress on joints is a valid intervention.

Excess weight is a significant risk factor for osteoarthritis, and weight loss can help alleviate symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

Choice C rationale:

Recommending physical therapy to improve joint flexibility and strength is a beneficial intervention for managing osteoarthritis.

Physical therapy can help patients maintain joint function, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life.

Choice D rationale:

Suggesting the use of opioid medications for long-term pain management is not typically the first-line treatment for osteoarthritis.

Opioids are associated with significant risks and should only be considered when other pain management strategies have been ineffective or when the pain is severe and disabling.

Choice E rationale:

Advising the patient to avoid all physical activity to prevent joint damage is not a suitable intervention.

While some modifications to physical activity may be necessary for individuals with osteoarthritis, complete avoidance of physical activity can lead to muscle weakness and decreased joint mobility, which can worsen the condition.