Osteoarthritis (OA)

• What is osteoarthritis (OA)?

  A degenerative joint disease
• What characterizes osteoarthritis?

  Breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone
• What happens when cartilage is lost in osteoarthritis?

  Bone-on-bone contact occurs
• How is osteoarthritis described in terms of progression and inflammation?

  Slowly progressive and non-inflammatory
• How common is osteoarthritis?

  It is common
• Who does osteoarthritis primarily affect?

  Especially older adults
• How does osteoarthritis impact the global population?

  Affects millions worldwide
• What generally worsens pain in osteoarthritis (OA)?


  Joint use
• How is joint pain in early stages of OA relieved?

  By rest
• What may patients experience in advanced OA regarding pain?

  Pain with rest
• When does pain typically occur in OA?

  During activity
• What is a common symptom of OA after periods of rest?

  Joint stiffness
• How long does early morning stiffness in OA typically last?

  Within 30 minutes
• How does OA distinguish itself from inflammatory joint disorders like RA?


  By early morning stiffness duration
• How does OA typically affect the joints in the body?

  Affects one side of the body
• What are the modifiable risk factors for osteoarthritis?

  • Obesity
  • Joint injuries
  • Repetitive stress on joints
• What are the non-modifiable risk factors for osteoarthritis?

  • Age
  • Gender
  • Genetics
• What are the clinical manifestations of osteoarthritis?

  • Joint pain
  • Stiffness
  • Swelling
  • Decreased range of motion
  • Crepitation
• Which joints are commonly affected by osteoarthritis?

  • Knees
  • Hips
  • Hands
  • DIP & PIP joints (fingers)
  • MCP joints (thumbs)
  • Spine
• What should be assessed in nursing assessment for OA?

  Pain, stiffness, and range of motion
• What are the components of the diagnosis for osteoarthritis?

  • Clinical evaluation: patient history, physical examination
  • Imaging: X-rays, MRI
  • Laboratory tests: rule out other types of arthritis
• What are the non-pharmacologic management strategies for osteoarthritis?

  • Weight management
  • Physical therapy (balance rest/activity)
  • Exercise
  • Heat/cold application
• What are the pharmacologic treatments for osteoarthritis?

  • Analgesics
  • NSAIDs
  • Corticosteroid injections
• What surgical option is available for osteoarthritis management?

  Joint replacement surgery
• What health promotion strategies should be included in nursing care for OA?

  • Cessation of smoking and alcohol
  • Exercise
• What is a common symptom management strategy for OA?

  Pain management
• What nursing care strategies can help with mobility in OA patients?

  • Posture and body mechanics
  • Assistive devices