A client with rheumatoid arthritis has an elevated serum rheumatoid factor. Which interpretation of this finding should the nurse make?

Confirmation of the autoimmune disease process.

Evidence of spread of the disease to the kidneys.

Indication of the onset of joint degeneration.

Representative of a decline in the client’s condition.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A reason: Rheumatoid factor is an antibody that is produced by the immune system and can bind to normal tissues, causing inflammation and damage. Rheumatoid factor is a marker of the autoimmune disease process that underlies rheumatoid arthritis, which is a chronic condition that affects the joints and other organs. A high level of rheumatoid factor can confirm the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and indicate the severity of the disease.

Choice B reason: Rheumatoid factor is not a specific indicator of kidney involvement in rheumatoid arthritis, which is a rare but possible complication of the disease. Kidney damage can occur due to inflammation of the blood vessels, medication side effects, or dehydration. Kidney function can be assessed by other laboratory tests, such as blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and urine analysis.

Choice C reason: Rheumatoid factor is not a direct cause of joint degeneration in rheumatoid arthritis, which is a progressive condition that leads to joint deformity and disability. Joint degeneration can occur due to chronic inflammation, erosion of cartilage and bone, and formation of nodules and cysts. Joint damage can be evaluated by physical examination, x-rays, and magnetic resonance imaging.

Choice D reason: Rheumatoid factor is not a reliable predictor of the client’s condition in rheumatoid arthritis, which is a variable and unpredictable disease that can have periods of remission and exacerbation. The client’s condition can be influenced by many factors, such as age, gender, genetics, lifestyle, and treatment. The client’s condition can be monitored by clinical symptoms, functional status, and quality of life.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: Beginning a weight loss program can help reduce the severity of OSA, which is a condition that causes repeated episodes of breathing cessation during sleep due to upper airway obstruction. Excess weight can contribute to OSA by increasing the fat deposits around the neck and throat, which can narrow the airway and make it more prone to collapse. Losing weight can help improve the airflow and reduce the need for CPAP therapy.

Choice B reason: Drinking 1 to 2 glasses of wine at bedtime can worsen OSA, which is a condition that requires adequate oxygenation and ventilation during sleep. Alcohol can relax the muscles of the throat and tongue, which can increase the risk of airway obstruction and apnea. Alcohol can also disrupt the sleep cycle and quality, which can affect the overall health and well-being of the client.

Choice C reason: Taking sedatives prior to sleep can also worsen OSA, which is a condition that requires alertness and arousal during sleep to resume breathing after an apneic episode. Sedatives can depress the central nervous system and the respiratory drive, which can reduce the responsiveness and the ability to overcome the airway obstruction. Sedatives can also have adverse effects, such as drowsiness, confusion, and dependency.

Choice D reason: Sleeping with the head of the bed flat can also worsen OSA, which is a condition that requires optimal positioning and alignment during sleep to prevent the airway obstruction. Sleeping with the head of the bed flat can cause the tongue and the soft palate to fall back and block the airway, especially when lying on the back. Sleeping with the head of the bed elevated can help open the airway and reduce the snoring and the apnea.

A. Whole milk and daily servings of ice cream. B. Citrus fruit and melon with a salt substitute. C. Pasta with herbal butter and no meat sauce. D. Canned vegetables with additional table salt.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: Whole milk and ice cream are high in fat, which can trigger the inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis) and the formation of gallstones. The client should avoid foods that are high in fat, such as fried foods, cheese, butter, cream, and fatty meats.

Choice B reason: Citrus fruit and melon with a salt substitute are not a problem for a client with cholecystitis, unless they have other conditions that require dietary modifications, such as diabetes or kidney disease. The client should eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, grains, and lean proteins.

Choice C reason: Pasta with herbal butter and no meat sauce is also acceptable for a client with cholecystitis, as long as the butter is used sparingly and the pasta is not cooked with oil or cheese. The client should limit the intake of refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, rice, and sugar, and choose whole grains instead.

Choice D reason: Canned vegetables with additional table salt are not recommended for a client with cholecystitis, because they are high in sodium, which can increase the risk of fluid retention and hypertension. The client should reduce the intake of salt and processed foods, such as canned soups, sauces, and snacks, and use herbs and spices to flavor the food.

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A client with rheumatoid arthritis has an elevated serum rheumatoid factor. Which interpretation of this finding should the nurse make?

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Explanation

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