The nurse is caring for a group of patients on a medical surgical unit. Which of the following patients is at most risk for developing gout?

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a significant risk factor for gout. This is because CVD often coexists with other conditions that can elevate uric acid levels, such as hypertension, obesity, and chronic kidney disease. Additionally, some medications used to treat CVD, such as thiazide diuretics, can also increase uric acid levels.

Research has shown that people with CVD have a 2-3 times higher risk of developing gout compared to those without CVD.

The mechanisms linking CVD and gout are complex and not fully understood, but they likely involve shared pathways of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction.

Choice D rationale:

Diuretic use, particularly thiazide diuretics, is a well-established risk factor for gout. These medications work by increasing the excretion of fluids and electrolytes from the body, which can also lead to a decrease in the excretion of uric acid.

This can result in a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which can then crystallize in joints and cause gout attacks.

The risk of gout associated with diuretic use is dose-dependent, meaning that higher doses of diuretics are associated with a higher risk of gout.

Choice A rationale:

Depression has not been consistently shown to be an independent risk factor for gout.
Some studies have suggested a possible link between depression and gout, but others have not found any association. More research is needed to clarify the relationship between these two conditions.

Choice B rationale:

Deep sleep deprivation has not been studied as a risk factor for gout.
There is currently no evidence to suggest that it is directly associated with an increased risk of developing the disease.

Choice A rationale:
Restricting weight-bearing on the affected foot may provide some temporary relief from pain during an acute gout attack. However, it is not a long-term management strategy and can lead to muscle weakness and joint stiffness. It's important to gradually resume weight-bearing activities as tolerated to maintain joint function.

Choice B rationale:
Adequate fluid intake is essential for overall health and can help to flush out uric acid from the body. However, 8 liters per day is an excessive amount of fluid and could lead to electrolyte imbalances and other health problems. A more appropriate recommendation for a client with gout would be to aim for a fluid intake of 2-3 liters per day, unless otherwise advised by a healthcare provider.

Choice C rationale:
Restricting consumption of foods high in purines is a key management strategy for gout. Purines are substances found in certain foods that break down into uric acid in the body. High levels of uric acid can lead to the formation of urate crystals, which deposit in joints and cause inflammation and pain. Examples of foods high in purines include organ meats, red meat, seafood, and some types of beans and lentils.

Choice D rationale:
Calcium supplements have not been shown to be effective in the management of gout. In fact, some studies have suggested that calcium supplements may even increase the risk of gout attacks.