A nurse is educating a client who has osteoarthritis of the knee. Which of the following explanations should the nurse give to the client as part of the disease process?
Damage to cartilage and bone can progressively worsen.
Organ failure in later stages may occur without treatment.
Inflammation will resolve over time.
There will be periods of flare-ups and remission of symptoms.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Damage to cartilage and bone can progressively worsen. This is a characteristic of osteoarthritis. The disease is a degenerative joint disease that results in the loss of cartilage, which cushions the ends of bones in joints. As the disease progresses, the cartilage becomes thinner and may wear away entirely, causing the bones to rub against each other. This can result in pain, stiffness, and loss of joint movement.
Choice B reason:
Organ failure in later stages may occur without treatment. This statement is not typically associated with osteoarthritis. While osteoarthritis can significantly impact a person's quality of life, it does not directly cause organ failure. However, it's important to manage osteoarthritis effectively to maintain overall health and prevent secondary complications.
Choice C reason:
Inflammation will resolve over time. This is not typically true for osteoarthritis. While some people with osteoarthritis may experience periods of reduced symptoms, the underlying disease process does not resolve over time. In fact, osteoarthritis usually worsens over time.
Choice D reason:
There will be periods of flare-ups and remission of symptoms. This is true for many people with osteoarthritis. Symptoms can vary and may become more severe during periods of activity or stress on the joint. Conversely, symptoms may decrease during periods of rest or with effective management strategies.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Reducing the dosage of methotrexate during pregnancy is not a safe option because methotrexate is contraindicated during pregnancy due to its potential to cause birth defects and other adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Choice B reason:
While dietary modifications may be necessary during pregnancy, this is not specifically related to the use of methotrexate. The primary concern with methotrexate and pregnancy is the risk it poses to the developing fetus, not dietary interactions.
Choice C reason:
Breastfeeding while taking methotrexate is not recommended. Methotrexate can be excreted in breast milk and may harm a nursing infant.
Choice D reason:
Methotrexate should indeed be discontinued at least 3 months prior to a planned pregnancy. This is to ensure that the drug is completely cleared from the body, as it can cause serious birth defects and other pregnancy-related complications.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Drink 3L of fluid every day
Drinking adequate fluids, especially water, is one of the most effective ways to prevent kidney stones. Fluids dilute the substances in urine that lead to stones. For someone with a history of kidney stones, drinking about 3 liters of water each day can help prevent stone formation¹².
Choice B reason: Take 3,000 mg of vitamin C daily
High doses of vitamin C can increase the risk of kidney stones as the body converts vitamin C into oxalate, which can then form stones. Therefore, taking 3,000 mg of vitamin C daily is not recommended for individuals prone to calcium oxalate stones².
Choice C reason: Restrict calcium intake to one serving per day
Contrary to what might seem intuitive, restricting calcium intake is not generally advised for preventing calcium oxalate stones. Adequate dietary calcium can help reduce the amount of oxalate being absorbed by the body, thus lowering the risk of stone formation. It's important to consume calcium-rich foods in moderation and not to restrict them severely.
Choice D reason: Eat 12 oz of animal protein daily
A high intake of animal protein can increase the risk of kidney stones in susceptible individuals. Animal protein can increase calcium and oxalate levels in urine and reduce levels of citrate, a substance that prevents stones. Therefore, it's recommended to limit animal protein intake rather than consume large amounts.

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