ATI Capstone Exam 1 Related

Review ATI Capstone Exam 1 related questions and content

A nurse is completing a physical assessment of a client who has early osteoarthritis. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?

  • A. Ulnar deviation
  • B. Symmetric joints affected
  • C. Pain worsens with activity
  • D. Weight loss
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pain worsens with activity. In osteoarthritis, pain typically worsens with movement or activity due to the degeneration of joint cartilage causing friction between bones. This is a hallmark symptom of osteoarthritis. Ulnar deviation (A) is more commonly seen in rheumatoid arthritis. Symmetric joints affected (B) is also more characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis rather than osteoarthritis. Weight loss (D) is not a typical manifestation of osteoarthritis, unless it is due to decreased physical activity from pain.