A client with osteoarthritis is experiencing severe joint pain and limited mobility. The nurse should recommend which of the following non-pharmacological interventions for pain management?

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.

Joint protection techniques are an essential component of patient education for clients with osteoarthritis. These techniques help clients reduce stress on their affected joints and manage pain during daily activities. Encouraging frequent high-impact exercises can worsen joint pain and damage in osteoarthritis. Advising the client to avoid all physical activity is not recommended, as regular low-impact exercises are beneficial for joint health. Using a cold pack daily can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation, but it is not the primary focus of patient education for osteoarthritis.

a. Encouraging frequent high-impact exercises can exacerbate joint pain and damage in clients with osteoarthritis. Low-impact exercises are recommended instead.
b. Advising the client to avoid all physical activity is not recommended. Regular low-impact exercises, such as swimming or walking, are beneficial for joint health in osteoarthritis.
c. Using a cold pack daily can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation, but it is not the primary focus of patient education for osteoarthritis.