Questions: The nurse reviews a patient's medical record and recognizes which risk factor for osteoarthritis (OA)? Low body mass index (BMI) Obesity Childbearing age Male sex

The answer is the second one (B): Obesity.

Explanation for each option:

1. Low body mass index (BMI): Incorrect. A low BMI is generally not considered a risk factor for osteoarthritis. In fact, a lower BMI may reduce the stress on weight-bearing joints, potentially lowering the risk of OA.

2. Obesity: Correct. Obesity is a well-known risk factor for osteoarthritis. Excess body weight increases the stress on joints, particularly the knees and hips, which can accelerate the wear and tear of cartilage and lead to OA.

3. Childbearing age: Incorrect. While hormonal changes and physical stress during pregnancy can affect joints, childbearing age itself is not a recognized risk factor for osteoarthritis.

4. Male sex: Incorrect. Osteoarthritis is more common in women than in men, especially after the age of 50. Therefore, male sex is not considered a risk factor for OA.

Summary: The nurse should recognize obesity as a significant risk factor for osteoarthritis due to the increased stress on weight-bearing joints.