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 repeat blood cultures could potentially provide useful information, they are not the immediate priority when a patient develops jaundice. Jaundice is a sign of liver dysfunction, and further evaluation of liver function is needed to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Choice B rationale
Arranging emergency transport to an inpatient facility may be necessary in some cases, but it is not the immediate action required in this situation. The development of jaundice indicates a need for further evaluation, but it does not necessarily indicate an emergency situation.
Choice C rationale
Explaining the need to evaluate liver function is the most appropriate action in this situation. Jaundice is a sign of liver dysfunction, and further evaluation of liver function is needed to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Choice D rationale
While increasing protein intake can be beneficial for some patients with liver disease, it is not the immediate priority in this situation. The development of jaundice indicates a need for further evaluation of liver function.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Prompting the nurse to apply povidone to the site is not the correct action in this scenario. Povidone-iodine is an antiseptic used for skin disinfection before and after surgery. It is not typically used in the process of irrigating an intravenous catheter.
Choice B rationale
Directing the nurse to attach the luer-lock tip to the irrigation port is the correct action. A luer-lock syringe is commonly used in medical procedures, including the irrigation of an intravenous catheter. The luer-lock tip provides a secure connection to prevent leaks and ensure that the irrigation solution is delivered directly to the catheter.
Choice C rationale
Sending an unlicensed assistive personnel to gather equipment is not the most appropriate action in this scenario. The new nurse has already gathered the necessary equipment for the procedure.
Choice D rationale
Instructing the nurse to use water with 5% dextrose (D5W) is not the correct action. D5W is a type of intravenous fluid used to correct dehydration and provide calories to the patient. It is not typically used for irrigating an intravenous catheter.
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