Assessment and Diagnosis of Chronic Illnesses
Assessment and Diagnosis of Chronic Illnesses ( 4 Questions)
A nurse is caring for a client who has rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The client reports increased joint pain and stiffness in the morning. Which of the following interventions should the nurse suggest to the client?
This is not correct, as cold packs are more effective for acute inflammation and swelling, which are not typical features of RA. Cold packs can also increase joint stiffness and discomfort.
Performing gentle range-of-motion exercises after waking up can help reduce joint stiffness and improve mobility for clients with RA. The exercises should be done slowly and carefully, without forcing or overextending the joints.
This is not correct, as NSAIDs are more effective when taken regularly throughout the day, rather than only at night. NSAIDs can also cause gastrointestinal irritation and bleeding, especially when taken on an empty stomach or before lying down.
This is not correct, as avoiding weight-bearing activities can lead to muscle weakness and joint deformity in clients with RA. Weight-bearing activities should be done in moderation and with proper support and alignment.
Performing gentle range-of-motion exercises after waking up can help reduce joint stiffness and improve mobility for clients with RA. The exercises should be done slowly and carefully, without forcing or overextending the joints.
Incorrect options:
A) Apply cold packs to the affected joints before getting out of bed. - This is not correct, as cold packs are more effective for acute inflammation and swelling, which are not typical features of RA. Cold packs can also increase joint stiffness and discomfort.
C) Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) before bedtime. - This is not correct, as NSAIDs are more effective when taken regularly throughout the day, rather than only at night. NSAIDs can also cause gastrointestinal irritation and bleeding, especially when taken on an empty stomach or before lying down.
D) Avoid weight-bearing activities until noon. - This is not correct, as avoiding weight-bearing activities can lead to muscle weakness and joint deformity in clients with RA. Weight-bearing activities should be done in moderation and with proper support and alignment.