A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The nurse is assessing the client to determine the effectiveness of the current treatment regimen. Which finding would be the best indicator that the client's RA management is effective?
The client expresses feelings of frustration and difficulty coping with the chronic nature of RA.
The client's C-reactive protein (CRP) levels have remained stable since the initiation of treatment.
The client demonstrates improved range of motion in the affected joints during physical therapy sessions.
The client's radiographic images show no progression of joint erosion compared to images from six months ago.
The Correct Answer is D
A. The client expresses feelings of frustration and difficulty coping with the chronic nature of RA: This indicates the client is struggling emotionally, which is common in chronic illnesses but does not directly reflect the effectiveness of the RA treatment regimen.
B. The client's C-reactive protein (CRP) levels have remained stable since the initiation of treatment: While stable CRP levels can indicate control of inflammation, they do not show improvement. Ideally, effective treatment would reduce CRP levels.
C. The client demonstrates improved range of motion in the affected joints during physical therapy sessions: Improved range of motion is a positive outcome, but it may not fully represent the overall effectiveness of the RA treatment, as joint damage can still progress.
D. The client's radiographic images show no progression of joint erosion compared to images from six months ago: This is the best indicator of effective RA management as it directly shows that the treatment is preventing further joint damage, which is a primary goal in managing RA.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Elevating the head of the bed 30 to 45 degrees helps prevent aspiration, which is a risk factor for ventilator-associated pneumonia.
B. Performing hand hygiene before touching the ventilator tubing is crucial to prevent the introduction of pathogens into the ventilator system.
C. Refraining from suctioning the client is incorrect; suctioning should be performed as needed to keep the airway clear.
D. Providing mouth care every 2-4 hours can reduce the risk of pathogens entering the lower respiratory tract.
E. Performing hand hygiene before touching the client reduces the risk of transmitting infectious agents to the client.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Check an apical pulse: Digoxin is known to cause toxicity, which can manifest as nausea, weakness, and anorexia. Bradycardia is a common sign of digoxin toxicity. Therefore, the nurse's first action should be to assess the client's apical pulse rate to determine if there are any signs of bradycardia, which could indicate digoxin toxicity.
B. Request a dietitian consult: While nutrition is important, the client's symptoms of nausea and weakness need immediate attention to rule out digoxin toxicity before considering dietary interventions.
C. Request an order for an antiemetic: Administering an antiemetic may be indicated if the client is experiencing nausea, but it's crucial to assess for digoxin toxicity first, as antiemetics may mask symptoms of toxicity.
D. Suggest that the client rests before eating the meal: Rest may be beneficial for the client, but addressing the potential cause of the symptoms, such as digoxin toxicity, takes priority
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