A nurse is teaching an adult client who has been recently diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Which of the following should the nurse include in the teaching?
"When taking leflunomide, expect decreased swelling within 1 week.".
"If acute inflammation is present, apply hot packs directly to the joint for pain relief.".
"Take calcium and vitamin D supplements along with your steroid medication.".
"Make sure your varicella vaccine is up to date.".
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
Leflunomide is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used for rheumatoid arthritis, but it does not typically result in decreased swelling within one week. It usually takes several weeks or even months for its full effect to be observed.
Choice B rationale:
Applying hot packs directly to the joint for pain relief is not recommended for rheumatoid arthritis, as heat can exacerbate inflammation. Cold packs or other anti-inflammatory measures are more appropriate.
Choice C rationale:
Steroid medications, such as prednisone, can lead to bone density loss and an increased risk of osteoporosis. Taking calcium and vitamin D supplements helps to mitigate this risk.
Choice D rationale:
The Varicella vaccine is not directly related to rheumatoid arthritis. It is important for immune support, but it is not specifically required for rheumatoid arthritis treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Increasing potassium consumption is unrelated to cephalexin, an antibiotic. It is not a necessary precaution or action to take while on this medication.
Choice B rationale:
Applying lotion to the skin to relieve itching is not related to cephalexin use. Itching is not a common side effect of this antibiotic, so the client's statement indicates a misunderstanding of the teaching.
Choice C rationale:
Avoiding sun exposure is essential while taking cephalexin because it is known to cause photosensitivity reactions. Sun exposure can lead to severe skin reactions, so the client's statement indicates an understanding of the teaching.
Choice D rationale:
Keeping the medication refrigerated is not necessary for cephalexin oral suspension. It should be stored at room temperature unless specified otherwise by the manufacturer. The client's statement suggests a misunderstanding of the medication storage instructions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should maintain the affected leg elevated on several pillows to reduce swelling and promote venous return. Elevating the leg helps minimize edema, which can be beneficial for the healing process and overall comfort of the client.
Choice B rationale:
Instructing the client to wiggle the toes once every 4 hours is not necessary and may cause discomfort to the fractured tibia. Toe wiggling does not provide any significant benefit in this context and could potentially disrupt the healing process.
Choice C rationale:
Using a hair dryer to promote drying of the cast is not recommended. Applying heat to the fiberglass cast may alter its integrity and lead to uneven drying, potentially weakening the cast's support.
Choice D rationale:
Applying heat to the client's cast for pain relief is not advisable. Heat may also weaken the cast material and is unlikely to provide effective pain relief for a fractured tibia. Instead, the nurse should follow the prescribed pain management plan and use appropriate pain medications as ordered by the healthcare provider.
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