An elderly patient with osteoarthritis is experiencing increased pain and stiffness in their right knee.
What pathological condition should the nurse identify as the cause of these symptoms?
Degradation of joint cartilage.
A systemic inflammatory response.
An infectious process in the synovial fluid.
A decrease in bone mineral density.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Osteoarthritis is a joint disease in which the tissues in the joint, including the cartilage, break down over time. The degradation of joint cartilage is the primary pathological condition that leads to the symptoms of osteoarthritis, such as increased pain and stiffness.
Choice B rationale
A systemic inflammatory response is not the primary cause of osteoarthritis. While inflammation can occur in the affected joint, osteoarthritis is not a systemic inflammatory disease like rheumatoid arthritis.
Choice C rationale
An infectious process in the synovial fluid is not typically associated with osteoarthritis. Infections can lead to a different type of arthritis known as septic arthritis.
Choice D rationale
A decrease in bone mineral density is associated with osteoporosis, not osteoarthritis. In osteoarthritis, the issue is primarily with the degradation of cartilage, not a loss of bone density.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While altered taste sensation can occur with radiation treatment, it’s not the most likely reason for an imbalance in nutritional intake in this scenario.
Choice B rationale
Fatigue can be a side effect of radiation treatment, but it’s not the primary reason for an imbalance in nutritional intake in this case.
Choice C rationale
Pain during eating is the most likely cause of imbalanced nutritional intake in this scenario. The patient’s laryngeal cancer and the development of mucositis indicate that eating is likely painful for them. This discomfort can significantly deter the patient from eating, leading to decreased nutritional intake.
Choice D rationale
Nausea can occur with radiation treatment, but it’s not the primary reason for an imbalance in nutritional intake in this case.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Watery diarrhea is a significant side effect of linezolid and could indicate a serious condition called antibiotic-associated colitis, which is caused by an overgrowth of the bacterium Clostridium difficile. This condition requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B rationale
Increased fatigue is a common side effect of many medications, including linezolid. While it should be reported to the healthcare provider, it is not as urgent as watery diarrhea.
Choice C rationale
Nausea and headache are common side effects of linezolid. While they should be reported to the healthcare provider, they are not as urgent as watery diarrhea.
Choice D rationale
Yellow-tinged sputum could indicate an infection or other lung condition. However, in the context of a patient receiving linezolid for nosocomial pneumonia, it is not as urgent as watery diarrhea.
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