A nurse is assessing a client's adaptation to a new diagnosis of osteoarthritis. Which of the following client statements should indicate to the nurse that the client is managing the disease?

A) Orthostatic hypotension: Anemia often results in decreased blood volume and oxygen-carrying capacity, which can cause orthostatic hypotension. This condition is characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure when moving from a sitting or lying position to standing, leading to dizziness or fainting.

B) Clubbing of the nail beds: Clubbing is typically associated with chronic hypoxia and long-term respiratory or cardiovascular diseases, rather than anemia. It involves the enlargement of the fingertips and changes in the angle of the nail bed.

C) Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, usually caused by infections, allergies, or irritants. It is not a common manifestation of anemia.

D) Heat intolerance: Heat intolerance is more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism or other metabolic disorders rather than anemia. Individuals with anemia are more likely to experience cold intolerance due to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.

A) Measure the client's manifestations using an anxiety rating scale: This action is essential as the first step because it allows the nurse to accurately assess the severity of the client's anxiety. Understanding the level of anxiety helps in planning appropriate interventions and monitoring the effectiveness of any treatment provided. Accurate assessment is foundational in clinical decision making.

B) Initiate a referral to a local support group: While beneficial, referring the client to a support group should follow an initial assessment. Support groups can offer long-term benefits, but immediate needs and severity must be evaluated first.

C) Assist in finding alternative ways to cope: Helping the client develop coping strategies is an important intervention. However, before suggesting specific coping mechanisms, the nurse needs to understand the current level of anxiety and how it affects the client. This ensures that the coping strategies are appropriately tailored.

D) Administer an antianxiety medication: Administering medication can be crucial in managing severe anxiety, but this step should come after a thorough assessment. The nurse needs to determine if medication is necessary and what dosage might be appropriate, based on the anxiety rating scale and other assessment findings.