A client states that he has been experiencing oozing from his wound. What is the nurse's priority assessment for this client?

Choice A reason: Heberden's nodes are not a symptom of lupus. Heberden's nodes are bony swellings that form on the distal interphalangeal joints of the fingers. They are a sign of osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative joint disease that causes pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Choice B reason: Chvostek's sign is not a symptom of lupus. Chvostek's sign is a facial twitch that occurs when the facial nerve is tapped near the ear. It is a sign of hypocalcemia, which is a low level of calcium in the blood. Hypocalcemia may be caused by various conditions, such as hypoparathyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, or renal failure.

Choice C reason: OsgoodSchlatter's disease is not a symptom of lupus. OsgoodSchlatter's disease is a condition that affects the growth plate of the tibia, which is the shin bone. It causes pain, swelling, and tenderness below the knee. It is common in adolescents who are active in sports that involve running, jumping, or bending the knee.

Choice D reason: Butterfly rash is a classic symptom of lupus. Butterfly rash is a malar rash that appears across the cheeks and the bridge of the nose. It is a common sign of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and damage to various organs and tissues. The rash may flare up or fade depending on the disease activity and exposure to sunlight.

Choice A reason: This is the priority nursing intervention because it helps to prevent infection, which is a major complication and risk factor for mortality in clients with lupus. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and damage to various organs and tissues. Steroids are used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system, but they also increase the susceptibility to infection. The nurse should wash their hands before and after contact with the client and follow standard precautions to reduce the transmission of microorganisms.

Choice B reason: This is not the priority nursing intervention, but it is a good intervention to promote the psychosocial health of the client. Lupus can affect the client's selfesteem, mood, and social relationships, especially during a flareup, which is a period of increased symptoms and activity of the disease. The nurse should assist with the enhancement of social wellbeing by providing activities that are appropriate for the client's physical and mental condition, such as reading, listening to music, or talking with friends and family.

Choice C reason: This is not the priority nursing intervention, but it is a good intervention to evaluate the client's coping and support resources. Lupus can be a chronic and unpredictable disease that can cause stress, anxiety, and depression in the client. The nurse should assess the client's support system, such as family, friends, or community groups, that can provide emotional, practical, and financial assistance to the client. The nurse should also refer the client to counseling, support groups, or other services as needed.

Choice D reason: This is not the priority nursing intervention, but it is a good intervention to respect the client's dignity and autonomy. Lupus can affect the client's appearance, mobility, and independence, which can make them feel vulnerable and embarrassed. The nurse should ensure privacy by keeping the door always closed, unless the client requests otherwise, and by knocking and asking for permission before entering the room. The nurse should also cover the client with a blanket or gown and expose only the necessary body parts during assessment or procedures.