Final answer:
The nurse would identify age, a history of joint injury, excess body weight, and family history of osteoarthritis as risk factors during assessment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Risk Factors for Osteoarthritis
When assessing a patient for risk factors that contribute to osteoarthritis (OA), the nurse would interpret age as the chief risk factor. Other significant assessment findings that indicate increased risk for OA include a history of joint injury, excess body weight, and a family history of OA. These factors are known to stress the articular cartilage, leading to its breakdown, which can, in turn, lead to OA. Early symptoms often occur after exercise or prolonged activity, but may become constant over time. While aging cannot be prevented, other modifiable risk factors such as maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding joint injuries can be addressed to help reduce the risk.
The nurse would interpret excess body weight as a risk factor for osteoarthritis. Excess body weight puts added stress on weight-bearing joints, increasing the risk of joint damage and the development of osteoarthritis. Additionally, research has shown a link between obesity and systemic inflammation, which can further contribute to the development and progression of osteoarthritis.