The nurse is educating a client newly diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis about the disease process and home management. Which statement by the client indicates comprehension of teaching?

Question

The nurse is educating a client newly diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis about the disease process and home management.  Which statement by the client indicates comprehension of teaching?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

11ecbb05_ca14_e3eb_b433_914ecf233e8a_MD0009_00 Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, relapsing autoimmune disorder causing painful inflammation of synovial joints and fibrosis and stiffening of synovial membranes. Contracture of ligaments and joint remodeling may occur, resulting in weakness and deformity. Clients with RA require education on prevention of disease progression, including: Joint protection - Fibrosis from RA can shorten tendons and ligaments when joints are flexed for prolonged periods. Body aligners or immobilizers should be used when resting to keep extremities straight (especially with advanced disease). Medications - RA is often treated using a regimen of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (eg, methotrexate), and clients should take their medication as prescribed regardless of symptoms (Option C). (Option A) Joint deformity can be prevented with appropriate treatment, including use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and joint protection. (Option B) Obesity is a risk factor for osteoarthritis, in which mechanical erosion of joint cartilage occurs. However, obesity is unrelated to RA, and clients with RA experience chronic fatigue and pain that may limit oral intake and cause weight loss. The nurse should ensure that clients with RA have access to adequate nutrition. (Option D) During painful episodes, periods of rest are encouraged; however, clients should frequently perform range of motion exercises to prevent loss of function. Educational objective: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes pain and joint deformity. Clients with RA should be taught to remain active to prevent contracture, take immunosuppressant medications consistently, use body aligners to prevent joint contracture, and eat a balanced diet.

The Nurse Is Educating a Client Newly Diagnosed with Rheumatoid