An older client with osteoarthritis reports increasing pain and stiffness in the right knee and asks how to reduce these symptoms. In responding to the client, the nurse recognizes what pathology as the cause of the symptoms?
Destruction of joint cartilage.
Systemic inflammatory response.
Loss of bone mineral density.
Infectious process in the synovial fluid.
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale
A. Osteoarthritis is characterized by the gradual destruction of joint cartilage. Cartilage serves as a cushion between the bones in a joint, and its deterioration leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced joint function. As the cartilage wears away, bones may rub directly against each other, causing further pain and damage.

B. Osteoarthritis is primarily a degenerative condition rather than an inflammatory one. While mild inflammation can occur in OA, it is not as prominent as in autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. In OA, inflammation is secondary to cartilage damage rather than a primary driver of the disease process.
C. Loss of bone mineral density is more characteristic of osteoporosis, a condition where bones become weak and brittle. Osteoporosis involves a decrease in bone mass throughout the skeleton, whereas osteoarthritis specifically targets the joints and affects cartilage rather than bone density.
D. An infectious process in the synovial fluid could indicate septic arthritis, which is characterized by infection in the joint space. This is typically associated with acute symptoms such as severe joint pain, swelling, warmth, and fever.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Rationale
A. This involves visually inspecting the chest to ensure both sides rise and fall equally during ventilation. Symmetrical chest movement suggests that both lungs are being adequately ventilated.
B. Auscultation involves listening with a stethoscope over the chest to confirm the presence of breath sounds in both lung fields. Bilateral breath sounds indicate that the ETT is correctly positioned in the trachea, allowing air to reach both lungs.
C. A chest x-ray provides a definitive confirmation of the ETT placement in relation to the trachea and lungs. It allows visualization of the tube's position relative to anatomical landmarks, such as the carina, which helps ensure proper placement.
This involves checking the markings on the ETT tube to ensure it is inserted to the correct depth. Typically, the ETT should be positioned with its tip approximately 2 to 4 cm above the carina, which corresponds to the 22-26 cm mark at the teeth line in adults. However, it does not confirm correct placement.
E. Capillary refill is a measure of peripheral perfusion and is unrelated to ETT placement. It assesses circulatory status by pressing on a nail bed and observing the time it takes for color to return. It does not provide information about ETT placement.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale
A. Green leafy vegetables do not interact with cefdinir. They are generally a healthy choice and can be encouraged without any concerns related to the antibiotic therapy.
B. Fresh fruits are also safe to consume with cefdinir. There are no interactions between fruits and this antibiotic.
C. Yogurt and buttermilk contain probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help maintain gut health. Antibiotics like cefdinir can disrupt the normal gut flora, leading to diarrhea or other gastrointestinal issues. Consuming yogurt or buttermilk with live cultures may help replenish beneficial bacteria in the gut and reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
D. Avocados and cheese are also safe choices. There are no specific interactions between these foods and cefdinir.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
