Exhibits

The client has received a medical diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The client should receive education about living and managing her condition and how to minimize disease complications.
Which education should be given to the client by the nurse? Select all that apply.

A. Perform aggressive weight bearing exercises: Aggressive weight-bearing exercises may place too much strain on the joints, especially for someone with RA. Low-impact activities, such as swimming or walking, are generally recommended to avoid exacerbating joint damage or pain.

B. Anticipate dry eyes and mouth; no intervention is needed: While dry eyes and mouth can occur in autoimmune diseases like RA, particularly if the client has secondary Sjögren's syndrome, they should not be ignored. The nurse should advise the client to seek treatment for these symptoms, as interventions can provide relief.

C. Take hot showers to help relieve stiffness: Warm showers or baths can help reduce the stiffness and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by relaxing muscles and improving circulation. This can be an effective method to manage the morning stiffness that the client experiences.

D. Observe skin for any lesions: Skin lesions can be a result of certain medications or the disease process itself. RA treatment, particularly with medications like methotrexate or biologics, can increase the risk of skin issues, and regular monitoring is important for early identification.

E. Watch for gastrointestinal upset with medication administration: NSAIDs like ibuprofen, which the client is taking for pain, can cause gastrointestinal issues such as ulcers or irritation. Monitoring for these symptoms is important to avoid complications related to the medication.

F. Discuss body image feelings with a trusted friend or therapist: The chronic nature of RA, along with potential joint deformities and limitations, can impact body image. Discussing these feelings with a trusted person or therapist can help the client manage the psychological aspects of living with a chronic condition.

G. Avoid fluids, to decrease trips to the bathroom: Reducing fluid intake could lead to dehydration, which may cause other complications. The client should be encouraged to drink adequate fluids, despite more frequent trips to the bathroom, to stay properly hydrated.

H. Prioritize rest, with short periods of activity: RA can cause joint fatigue and pain. It’s important to balance periods of rest with light, non-strenuous activities to reduce stress on the joints while maintaining some level of mobility. This can help manage energy levels and minimize joint strain.