The healthcare provider is assessing a client with suspected osteoarthritis. Which of the following diagnostic tests is most appropriate to confirm the diagnosis?
Rheumatoid factor (RF) blood test
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the joints
C-reactive protein (CRP) blood test
Synovial fluid analysis
The Correct Answer is B
MRI is the most appropriate diagnostic test to confirm the diagnosis of osteoarthritis. It can provide detailed images of the affected joints, allowing the healthcare provider to assess the joint structures, cartilage, and bone for signs of osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid factor (RF) blood test and C-reactive protein (CRP) blood test are used to diagnose inflammatory arthritis conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, not osteoarthritis. Synovial fluid analysis is usually performed to assess for infection or inflammation in the joint, not to diagnose osteoarthritis.
a. Rheumatoid factor (RF) blood test is used to diagnose inflammatory arthritis conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, not osteoarthritis.
c. C-reactive protein (CRP) blood test is used to diagnose inflammatory conditions, but it is not specific to osteoarthritis.
d. Synovial fluid analysis is usually performed to assess for infection or inflammation in the joint, not to diagnose osteoarthritis.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
X-ray of the joint is the most appropriate diagnostic test to evaluate for osteoarthritis. X-ray can show joint space narrowing, osteophyte formation, and changes in bone density, which are typical findings in osteoarthritis. A complete blood count (CBC) and rheumatoid factor (RF) blood test are used to assess for inflammation and autoimmune markers, respectively, which are more indicative of inflammatory arthritis conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, not osteoarthritis. Synovial fluid analysis is usually performed to assess for infection or inflammation in the joint and may not be as helpful in diagnosing osteoarthritis.
a. A complete blood count (CBC) is used to assess for general health and detect various conditions, but it is not specific to osteoarthritis.
b. A rheumatoid factor (RF) blood test is used to diagnose inflammatory arthritis conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, not osteoarthritis.
d. Synovial fluid analysis is usually performed to assess for infection or inflammation in the joint, but it may not provide definitive evidence of osteoarthritis.
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