A nurse in an outpatient clinic.

Exhibits

Complete the diagram by dragging from the choices below to specify what condition the client is most likely experiencing, 2 actions the nurse should take to address that condition, and 2 parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client's progress.

Potential Condition: Osteoarthritis

Actions to take:

Instruct the client to apply topical analgesics

Instruct the client to apply heat and cold

Parameters to monitor

Joint deformities

ESR

Rationale:

• Condition: 1. Osteoarthritis
  Rationale:

  • Gradual onset of joint pain over 2 years, affecting weight-bearing (knee) and commonly used joints (wrist).Crepitus noted in affected joints. No systemic symptoms (no rashes, no fever).ANA negative, ESR normal, uric acid mildly elevated but within normal limits, less consistent with gout or SLE. Family history is not strongly suggestive of autoimmune disease.

• Nursing actions to take: 3. Instruct the client to apply topical analgesics, 5. Instruct the client to apply heat and cold
  Rationale:

  • Topical analgesics help relieve localized joint pain.

  • Heat and cold therapy help reduce pain and stiffness.

  • Dietary restrictions (purines) and vaccine precautions are not priorities for osteoarthritis.

• Parameters to monitor: 1. Joint deformities, 4. ESR
  Rationale:

  • Joint deformities: Monitor progression of structural joint changes.

  • ESR: Although typically normal in OA, it can help distinguish from inflammatory arthritis if changes occur.

A. Correct – Anticipatory guidance (e.g., child development, injury prevention, nutrition) in schools helps promote preventive healthcare in rural areas.
B. Incorrect – While pollution awareness is important, industrial pollution may not be the most immediate health concern for this rural community.
C. Incorrect – Encouraging spending on tertiary care (treatment of existing disease) is less effective than focusing on primary and secondary prevention.
D. Incorrect – Using local healthcare providers increases trust and participation; bringing in an outside nurse may not be as effective.