The nurse is caring for a patient with severe pain and swelling in the joints of the feet that occurs at night. The nurse notes that the joints in the feet are red and hot. What joint disease is most likely present?

Explanation

• Gout is characterized by increased uric acid levels, swollen, red, hot or painful joints. Joint pain generally occurs at night

• Osteoarthritis is characterized by joint pain, stiffness, creptius, Heberden's nodes, and Bouchard's nodes. Pain occurs with prolonged or excessive use and is relieved by rest

• Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by swollen and tender joints, stiffness, nodules, anemia, and joint pain. Pain and stiffness generally occurs in the morning or following inactivity. Movement may relieve symptoms

• Septic arthritis is characterized by invasion of the joint by microbes, leading to arthritis and destruction of the joint

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