A 71-Year-Old Male with a Suspected Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis Is

Multiple Choice

A 71-year-old male with a suspected diagnosis of osteoarthritis is being scheduled for a knee aspiration. The client is surprised to learn that his knee joint contains fluid and asks the physician ordering the procedure what the main role of the fluid is. Which of the following statements best underlies the explanation that the physician will provide?

A) Synovial fluid allows for joint movement by minimizing friction.
B) Fluid in the synovial cavities is essential for its role in immunity, and deficits indicate autoimmune etiologies.
C) Synovial fluid allows for the diffusion of gases and nutrients to cartilage that lacks blood supply.
D) The fluid inhibits clot formation in bone surfaces that are in constant contact.