An elderly patient with osteoarthritis is experiencing increased pain and stiffness in their right knee.
What pathological condition should the nurse identify as the cause of these symptoms?

Choice A rationale

An increased pulse rate can be a sign of pain in infants. The heart rate increases as the body’s way of coping with the stress of pain.

Choice B rationale

Skin showing peripheral pallor is not typically associated with pain. It can be a sign of other conditions, such as anemia or shock, but it’s not a reliable indicator of pain.

Choice C rationale

Clenched fists can be a sign of pain in infants. It’s a common non-verbal cue that infants use to express discomfort.

Choice D rationale

An increased respiratory rate can also be a sign of pain. Like an increased heart rate, it’s a physiological response to stress.

Choice E rationale

Restlessness can be a sign of discomfort or pain in infants. Infants may squirm, fidget, or have trouble settling down when they’re in pain.

Choice F rationale

An elevated temperature is not typically a direct sign of pain, but it can indicate an underlying condition that might be causing pain, such as an infection.

Choice A rationale

Assisting the spouse and carefully giving the patient small sips of water may seem like a compassionate action. However, it could potentially lead to aspiration if the patient’s swallowing reflex is compromised, which is common in stroke patients.

Choice B rationale

While obtaining thickening powder before providing any more fluids can help prevent aspiration in patients with dysphagia, it is not the immediate action the nurse should take. The nurse first needs to assess the patient’s swallowing reflex before deciding on the appropriate intervention.

Choice C rationale

The nurse should ask the spouse to stop and assess the patient’s swallowing reflex. This is the most immediate and appropriate action. Stroke patients often have impaired swallowing reflexes, which can lead to aspiration if not properly managed. By assessing the swallowing reflex, the nurse can determine the best course of action to ensure the patient’s safety.

Choice D rationale

Giving the spouse a straw to help facilitate the patient’s drinking is not the best course of action. Straws can increase the risk of aspiration in patients with impaired swallowing reflexes. The nurse should first assess the patient’s swallowing reflex before deciding on the appropriate intervention.