The nurse is reviewing the history and physical notes, as well as the nurse’s notes and laboratory results for a child.
The child is developmentally appropriate, interacting with his parents, and is in the percentile for weight and height.
The child’s lung sounds are clear and equal, a murmur is noted upon auscultation, and clubbing of the fingers is observed.
There is no skin breakdown, and the mucous membranes are pink and moist.
What condition is the child most likely experiencing, what two actions should the nurse take for this condition, and what two parameters should the nurse monitor to assess the child’s progress?

Choice A rationale

Osteoarthritis is a joint disease in which the tissues in the joint, including the cartilage, break down over time. The degradation of joint cartilage is the primary pathological condition that leads to the symptoms of osteoarthritis, such as increased pain and stiffness.

Choice B rationale

A systemic inflammatory response is not the primary cause of osteoarthritis. While inflammation can occur in the affected joint, osteoarthritis is not a systemic inflammatory disease like rheumatoid arthritis.

Choice C rationale

An infectious process in the synovial fluid is not typically associated with osteoarthritis. Infections can lead to a different type of arthritis known as septic arthritis.

Choice D rationale

A decrease in bone mineral density is associated with osteoporosis, not osteoarthritis. In osteoarthritis, the issue is primarily with the degradation of cartilage, not a loss of bone density.

Choice A rationale

Canned chicken broth with barley is not the best choice for a patient with hypertension. Canned foods, including chicken broth, are often high in sodium, which can raise blood pressure.

Choice B rationale

Tomato juice and gluten-free crackers may seem like a healthy option, but tomato juice can be high in sodium. While gluten-free crackers can be part of a healthy diet, they don’t offer any specific benefits for controlling hypertension.

Choice C rationale

A plain baked sweet potato is an excellent choice for a patient with hypertension. Sweet potatoes are high in potassium, which can help lower blood pressure. They’re also a good source of fiber and are naturally low in sodium.

Choice D rationale

Dill pickles and black olives are both high in sodium, which can raise blood pressure. Therefore, they’re not a good choice for someone with hypertension.