Osteoarthritis FINAL

Question 1

Progressive deterioration and loss of cartilage in one or more joints. It is the most common arthritis with joint pain and loss of function leading to impaired mobility.

Answer 1

Osteoarthritis

AKA Osteoarthrosis or Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD)

Question 2

Causes of Osteoarthritis

Answer 2

Aging, genetics, obesity, trauma, smoking, occupation, females (2:1)

Question 3

S/Sx of Osteoarthritis

Answer 3

-Degenerative
-Perhaps unilateral, single joint, non-systemic
-Affects weight bearing joints, spine and hands
-Metacarpophalangeal (Knuckles) are spared
-Pain w/ palpation and/or ROM
-Crepitus and enlarged joints
-Heberden’s & Bouchard’s nodes
-Inflammation from secondary synovitis
-Joint effusion
-Limping gait and emotional distress
-change in role and self-esteem
-depression, anger, stress

Question 4

Meds for Osteoarthritis

Answer 4

-Analgesics (acetaminophen)- OA IS NOT PRIMARILY INFLAMMATORY
-NSAIDS (short-term).
-Muscle relaxants
-Opioids, glucosamine
-Topicals (Lidocaine 5% patches, Trolamine Salicylate or diclofenac)

Question 5

Procedures completed for Osteoarthritis

Answer 5

total joint, hip, knee, and shoulder replacement

(Arthroplasty)

Question 6

Post total hip arthroplasty care

Answer 6

-Pillow splint to prevent adduction if pt is very restless or has an altered mental state
-Heels off bed (pressure injuries)
-Watch for signs of infection other than fever (older people), like decreased mental status and high WBC
-Incentive Spirometer Q2H
-Move to chair as soon as permitted to prevent complications of immobility.

Question 7

Pt education for discharge

Answer 7

-Don’t cross legs beyond midline.
-Don’t bend your hips more than 90 degrees.
-Report increased pain to surgeon immediately
-Inspect incisions daily for redness, heat, or drainage. If there, call the surgeon.

Question 8

Complications of Osteoarthritis

Answer 8

-Chronic pain
-Decreased mobility due to joint pain & muscle atrophy

Question 9

Nonpharmacologic measures

Answer 9

-Joint immobilizer
-Avoid excessive flexion
-Teach pt to place their joint in a functional position to avoid flexion contractures
-heat/cold
-Weight control
-Therapies (music, tai chi)
-Cognitive behavioral therapies (prayer, imaging)
-Use ACTIVE rather than active-assist or passive exercise to promote independent activity