Orthopaedic Nurses Certification Board (ONCB) Metabolic/Inflammatory/Tumors Practice Exam

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Which of the following is often observed in patients with ankylosing spondylitis?

  1. Joint deformities

  2. Severe weight loss

  3. Morning stiffness

  4. Fever

The correct answer is: Morning stiffness

In patients with ankylosing spondylitis, morning stiffness is a prominent and characteristic symptom. This condition is a type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and the sacroiliac joints, leading to pain and stiffness. Many individuals with ankylosing spondylitis report that their stiffness is most intense in the morning or after periods of inactivity, which can improve with movement and activity. This morning stiffness is significant as it reflects the underlying inflammatory process associated with the disease, indicating a cycle of inflammation that affects not just the physical structures of the spine but also the patient's mobility and quality of life. Understanding this symptom is key to recognizing ankylosing spondylitis and managing its effects on daily activities.