Author Question: An older adult client with bilateral osteoarthritis of the knees tells the nurse, I know I need to ... (Read 138 times)

RYAN BANYAN · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

An older adult client with bilateral osteoarthritis of the knees tells the nurse, I know I need to lose weight but exercising makes my knees ache. What instruction should the nurse provide to this client?

A) Discuss knee replacement surgery with the physician.
B) Exercise the muscles so that they will protect the joints.
C) Eat a reduced-calorie diet for several months before attempting exercise.
D) Stretch the muscles, because that is the only form of exercise that improves osteoarthritis.

Question 2

A nurse is conducting a health history on an older adult client in a medical practice. Which assessment finding places the client at risk for osteoporosis?

A) Having a BMI that indicates obesity
B) Using corticosteroids for ten years due to a chronic lung disorder
C) Eating 3-5 servings of shrimp and liver per week
D) Drinking three glasses of skim milk daily

raenoj · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: B

Exercise is an important aspect of nursing care for clients with osteoarthritis. Exercise can increase flexibility, improve blood flow, help the client lose weight, and improve mood. This is what the nurse should instruct the client. The nurse should not counsel the client to follow a reduced-calorie eating plan for several months before attempting exercise. The client may or may not want to have knee replacement surgery. Stretching is just one type of exercise that will help a client with osteoarthritis. The other components, strengthening and aerobic exercise, can be obtained through walking, swimming, and isometric, isotonic, and resistive exercises.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: B

Long-time use of corticosteroids is a risk factor for developing osteoporosis. Obesity is not a risk factor for osteoporosis. Skim milk is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, which prevents or slows osteoporosis. A diet rich in shellfish and organ meats is high in purine, which may predispose the client to gout.