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","D"]
Explanation
Based on the client’s current condition and the urgency of the interventions, the nurse should complete the following prescriptions first:
- C) Apply oxygen 1 L/minute: The client’s oxygen saturation level needs to be kept above 94%. Given her difficulty in breathing and the fact that she is pale and sitting upright, it’s crucial to ensure she is receiving enough oxygen.
- D) Give albuterol as ordered: Albuterol is a bronchodilator that can help relieve the client’s asthma symptoms. Since her symptoms did not resolve after taking her usual dose of albuterol, administering another dose as ordered can help improve her breathing.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Diaphragmatic respirations are normal in infants and do not necessarily indicate acute respiratory distress.
Choice B rationale
A resting respiratory rate of 35 breaths/min is within the normal range for a 4-month-old infant and does not necessarily indicate acute respiratory distress.
Choice C rationale
Bilateral bronchial breath sounds are normal findings and do not necessarily indicate acute respiratory distress.
Choice D rationale
Flaring of the nares, or nostrils, is a sign of respiratory distress in children. It indicates that the child is having to work harder to breathe.
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