A nurse is caring for a client in a provider's office.
Complete the diagram by dragging from the choices below to specify what condition the client is most likely experiencing, 2 actions the nurse should take to address that condition, and 2 parameters the nurse should monitor to assess the client's progress.
The Correct Answer is []
Condition:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Actions to Take:
- Assess joints for warmth and redness.
- Assess for paresthesias.
Parameters to Monitor:
- Weight-bearing joints.
- Decreased immunity.
Rationale:
Condition Choices
- Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis primarily leads to bone demineralization and increased fracture risk rather than inflammatory joint pain, swelling, and systemic symptoms such as fever and fatigue. The client’s symptoms, including joint inflammation and subcutaneous nodules, are not characteristic of osteoporosis.
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis typically presents with asymmetric joint involvement, stiffness that worsens with activity, and crepitus in weight-bearing joints. The client’s symptoms, including symmetric joint swelling, prolonged morning stiffness, and systemic inflammation markers, are more consistent with an autoimmune disorder like rheumatoid arthritis.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: The presence of bilateral joint pain, stiffness, swelling, subcutaneous nodules, and elevated inflammatory markers (ESR and CRP) strongly suggests rheumatoid arthritis. The morning stiffness, systemic symptoms like fatigue and low-grade fever, and the impact on mobility further support this diagnosis.
- Gout: Gout is characterized by acute, episodic joint pain, typically affecting the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe. The client’s symptoms are more widespread and chronic, involving multiple joints and systemic inflammation, which is not typical of gout.
Actions to Take
- Assess joints for warmth and redness: Inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis leads to synovial swelling, warmth, and redness. Regular assessment helps track disease progression and the effectiveness of treatment.
- Assess for paresthesias: Chronic inflammation and joint deformities in rheumatoid arthritis can lead to nerve compression, resulting in numbness or tingling, particularly in the hands and feet.
- Assess for crepitus in weight-bearing joints: Crepitus is more commonly associated with osteoarthritis due to cartilage degeneration. While rheumatoid arthritis affects weight-bearing joints, it does so through inflammatory destruction rather than mechanical wear.
- Recommend the client spend at least 5 min outside in the sun daily: Sun exposure can help with vitamin D synthesis, but rheumatoid arthritis is not primarily related to vitamin D deficiency. This intervention is more relevant for osteoporosis management.
Parameters to Monitor
- Weight-bearing joints: Rheumatoid arthritis commonly affects the knees, hips, and other weight-bearing joints, contributing to mobility issues and falls. Monitoring joint involvement helps assess disease progression.
- Decreased immunity: Rheumatoid arthritis and its treatments, such as immunosuppressive medications, increase the risk of infections. Monitoring for signs of immunosuppression is essential for early intervention.
- Joint inflammation in the big toe: This is more indicative of gout, which presents with acute episodes of pain and swelling in the first metatarsophalangeal joint rather than the widespread, chronic inflammation seen in rheumatoid arthritis.
- Calcium and vitamin D levels: While important for bone health, these levels do not provide direct insight into rheumatoid arthritis progression. They are more relevant in osteoporosis management.
- Cervical neck pain: While rheumatoid arthritis can affect the cervical spine, particularly at the atlantoaxial joint, the primary concern is peripheral joint inflammation and systemic symptoms rather than isolated neck pain.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
- Increase sources of fiber in the diet: Increasing dietary fiber is important for maintaining bowel health, especially when taking iron supplements, as constipation is a common side effect of iron therapy. A higher fiber intake can help alleviate constipation and promote regular bowel movements.
- Take the medication with a source of vitamin C: Vitamin C enhances iron absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Clients should be instructed to take ferrous sulfate with vitamin C-rich foods (such as citrus fruits) or beverages (like orange juice) to maximize absorption and improve the effectiveness of the iron supplement.
- Take the medication on an empty stomach: Iron supplements are best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach, ideally 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. However, if gastrointestinal upset occurs, the client may take the medication with food to minimize discomfort, but this can reduce absorption.
- Take an antacid within 30 min after medication administration: Antacids can interfere with the absorption of iron supplements. Clients should be advised to avoid antacids for at least 2 hours before or after taking iron supplements to ensure proper absorption.
- Increase intake of milk and dairy products: Calcium in milk and dairy products can inhibit iron absorption when consumed simultaneously. Clients should be advised to avoid consuming these products around the time they take their iron supplement for optimal absorption.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Contact your pharmacy to inquire about a different medication: Pharmacies may offer generic alternatives, but they cannot change a prescription without provider authorization. A social worker can explore financial assistance programs, which is a more comprehensive solution.
B. I can arrange for a social worker to talk with you before you leave: Social workers assist clients in finding resources such as medication assistance programs, prescription discount plans, or community aid. This ensures the client can access their medication without financial strain.
C. You should ask your provider to prescribe a cheaper medication: While discussing cost-effective alternatives with the provider is an option, it does not directly address the client’s financial concerns. A social worker can provide broader support beyond just switching medications.
D. I can contact the occupational therapist to schedule a home visit: Occupational therapy focuses on improving daily function and independence. It does not address financial concerns related to medication affordability, making this option inappropriate for the situation.
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