A client is admitted to the hospital during an exacerbation of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Which of the following nursing interventions are appropriate for a client experiencing an RA flare? (Select all that apply.)
Place client on total bedrest and avoid use of affected joints
Provide warm compresses to affected joints
Place several pillows under the head to keep the neck in a flexed position
Place the client on continuous cardiac monitoring
Administer methylprednisolone as ordered
Correct Answer : B,E
A. Total bedrest is generally not recommended. It is important to balance rest with gentle movement to maintain joint function and prevent stiffness. Instead of complete bedrest, promoting periods of rest
while allowing for limited activity as tolerated is more appropriate. Avoiding use of affected joints may be beneficial during acute inflammation but complete immobilization can lead to muscle atrophy and joint stiffness.
B. Applying warm compresses to affected joints can help relieve stiffness and pain associated with RA. Warmth can improve blood flow and reduce muscle tension around the joints. This intervention is typically beneficial during periods of stiffness and can help increase comfort. However, cold compresses may also be used during acute inflammation to reduce swelling.
C. Placing pillows to keep the neck in a flexed position is not advisable for RA patients. It can cause discomfort and potentially worsen joint and muscle issues. Proper positioning should support natural body alignment, and patients should be encouraged to maintain a neutral neck position to avoid additional strain.
D. Continuous cardiac monitoring is not a routine intervention for RA exacerbations unless there is an indication of cardiac involvement or complications. RA itself does not typically require continuous cardiac monitoring.
E. Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and manage RA symptoms during flares. Administering it as ordered is an appropriate intervention to control inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. This statement is relevant to the patient's health but does not indicate a need for further action by the nurse. Omeprazole is a common medication for acid reflux.
B. This statement is appropriate for patients with asthma. Fluticasone is a maintenance inhaler used to prevent asthma attacks, and taking it regularly as prescribed is important.
C. This statement is correct. Albuterol is a quick-relief inhaler used to treat asthma attacks.
D. This statement indicates a potential interaction with the patient's asthma medications. Beta-blockers like metoprolol can worsen asthma symptoms in some patients. The nurse should discuss this with the patient's doctor to determine if the benefits of metoprolol outweigh the risks for this individual.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Furosemide is a loop diuretic used to manage conditions such as hypertension and fluid retention. While furosemide has potential side effects, it is not specifically associated with an increased risk of developing cataracts.
B. Albuterol is a bronchodilator used to treat conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is not associated with an increased risk of cataracts. Albuterol primarily affects the respiratory system and does not have a known link to cataract development.
C. Gentamicin is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. While gentamicin can have adverse effects on hearing and kidneys, it is not specifically associated with an increased risk of cataracts. Antibiotics like gentamicin do not have a well-established link to cataract development.
D. Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used for pain relief, anti- inflammatory purposes, and cardiovascular protection. Long-term use of high doses of aspirin or other NSAIDs has been associated with various eye issues, including cataract formation.
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