A patient asks the difference between osteoarthritis and RA. Which manifestations does the nurse explain are characteristic of RA?
(Select all that apply.)
Heberden nodes
Early morning stiffness
Pain increasing by activity
Autoimmune disease
Low-grade fever
Correct Answer : B,D,E
A. Heberden nodes: These are bony swellings commonly seen in osteoarthritis, particularly affecting the distal interphalangeal joints of the fingers, not typically associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
B. Early morning stiffness: RA is characterized by prolonged morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes, which improves with activity, distinguishing it from the short-lived stiffness seen in osteoarthritis.
C. Pain increasing by activity: This is more characteristic of osteoarthritis, where joint pain typically worsens with use and activity. RA pain often improves with movement as the joints "warm up."
D. Autoimmune disease: RA is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system attacks its own tissues, leading to inflammation and joint damage.
E. Low-grade fever: Low-grade fever can be a systemic symptom of RA due to the autoimmune inflammatory process, which is not a feature of osteoarthritis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Paresthesia: Numbness or tingling sensations (paresthesia) can occur due to decreased blood supply and nerve function.
B. Pruritus: Itching (pruritus) is not typically associated with arterial occlusion. It is more often related to skin conditions or allergies.
C. Pain: Pain is a hallmark symptom of arterial occlusion, often described as severe and sudden, due to tissue ischemia.
D. Pallor: Affected limbs or areas may appear pale (pallor) because of reduced blood flow.
E. Palpitations: Palpitations are not a direct symptom of arterial occlusion. They are more related to cardiac conditions.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Apply a heating pad on a low setting to help relieve leg pain: Applying direct heat can increase the risk of burns due to reduced sensation in PAD patients. Heat also causes vasodilation, which might exacerbate symptoms of PAD.
B. Wear anti-embolic stockings during the day: Anti-embolic stockings can restrict arterial blood flow in PAD patients, worsening symptoms like claudication.
C. Rest with the legs above heart level: Elevating legs above heart level is contraindicated in PAD because it can decrease arterial blood flow to the extremities, worsening ischemic pain.
D. Adjust the thermostat so that the environment is warm: Keeping the environment warm helps to promote blood flow and reduce symptoms of PAD. Cold environments can cause vasoconstriction, worsening ischemia in the extremities.
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