A nurse is caring for a client who has a fractured right femur and is in balanced suspension traction. The client is reporting pain from muscle spasms. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

C. Synthetic casts are indeed lighter in weight compared to plaster casts. This lighter weight can improve patient comfort and mobility during the healing process.

A. Plaster casts typically do not require expensive equipment for application. The materials needed for applying a plaster cast are relatively inexpensive and readily available in most healthcare settings.

B. Both the synthetic and plaster casts have relatively equal efficacy in fracture immobilization.

D. Synthetic casts typically have a shorter drying time compared to plaster casts. They may dry within 10 to 30 minutes, whereas plaster casts can take longer, often several hours, to fully dry and harden.

A. Smoking has been associated with an increased risk of developing osteoarthritis, particularly in the knees and hips. Smoking may contribute to inflammation and oxidative stress, which can exacerbate joint damage.

D. Aging is a significant risk factor for osteoarthritis. As individuals age, the cartilage in their joints may naturally deteriorate over time, leading to the development of osteoarthritis.

E. Obesity is a well-established risk factor for osteoarthritis, particularly in weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips. Excess body weight places increased stress on the joints, leading to accelerated wear and tear of the joint cartilage.

B. Bacteria are not typically associated with the development of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is primarily a non-inflammatory condition related to wear and tear on the joints rather than an infectious process.

C. Diuretics are medications used to treat conditions such as hypertension and edema by increasing urine output. There is no direct evidence linking diuretic use to the development of osteoarthritis.