Exhibits

The nurse evaluates the client and the flow sheet.

Click to highlight the findings that indicate the client is progressing as expected.

The client presents to the office for reevaluation of rheumatoid arthritis after methotrexate 25 mg PO weekly was started at the last visit. The client reports she has been balancing periods of activity with rest. She recently attended a large family wedding and became fatigued quickly. She has continued to garden, and read, but crocheting is too painful. She is tolerating weekly medication without side effects. She describes pain as 1 to 2 on a 0 to 10 pain scale in bilateral hands. She has noticed "heartburn" about an hour after using ibuprofen for pain relief. The client is pleased with the improvements.

Rationale for Correct Findings:

• Balancing periods of activity with rest: This indicates effective self-management and understanding of a key principle in managing rheumatoid arthritis. Maintaining this balance helps prevent overexertion and joint flares while preserving mobility and function.
• Client reports pain as 1 to 2 on a 0 to 10 pain scale in bilateral hands: The reduction in pain from a previous score of 3 to 1-2 indicates a positive response to treatment. Pain reduction is a key marker of progress in managing rheumatoid arthritis, especially with the initiation of methotrexate.
• She is tolerating weekly medication without side effects: Tolerating methotrexate without side effects is a positive outcome. Methotrexate is a cornerstone treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, and its ability to be well-tolerated suggests good disease control.
• The client is pleased with the improvements: The client’s satisfaction with her treatment and the improvements in her condition demonstrate effective management of her rheumatoid arthritis and a positive response to the prescribed interventions.

Rationale for Incorrect Findings:

• She has continued to garden, but crocheting is too painful: The client’s inability to crochet due to pain suggests that joint function is still limited in certain fine motor activities. This shows that while some improvement has been made, the disease still affects specific functions.
• She recently attended a large family wedding and became fatigued quickly: Fatigue is common in RA and suggests that the client’s energy levels still need better management. Overexertion could indicate a need for better pacing between rest and activity to avoid exacerbating symptoms.
• She has noticed "heartburn" about an hour after using ibuprofen for pain relief: Heartburn is a common side effect of NSAIDs like ibuprofen, which could lead to gastrointestinal irritation. This issue requires attention, as it could progress to more serious gastrointestinal complications.