The nurse is collecting a health history for a client being seen in an outpatient clinic who complains of joint pain and swelling that have lasted for about 2 months. The client is diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Which of the following statements made by this client supports the nursing diagnosis of Activity Intolerance?
A)"I seem to get tired early in the day and require a nap."
B)"My joints are stiffest at night before I go to sleep."
C)"I find it difficult to move when I first get up in the morning."
D)"I take ibuprofen for the pain as needed."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A)One hallmark symptom of RA is extreme fatigue. The client's statement regarding the need for a nap supports the inclusion of Activity Intolerance in the plan of care. Based on this diagnosis, the nurse would teach the client about the need for frequent rest periods during the day to conserve energy. The joints of RA clients are usually stiffest in the morning, but that would not interfere with activities later in the day. Also, taking ibuprofen for pain does not affect the client's ability to engage in activity.
B)One hallmark symptom of RA is extreme fatigue. The client's statement regarding the need for a nap supports the inclusion of Activity Intolerance in the plan of care. Based on this diagnosis, the nurse would teach the client about the need for frequent rest periods during the day to conserve energy. The joints of RA clients are usually stiffest in the morning, but that would not interfere with activities later in the day. Also, taking ibuprofen for pain does not affect the client's ability to engage in activity.
C)One hallmark symptom of RA is extreme fatigue. The client's statement regarding the need for a nap supports the inclusion of Activity Intolerance in the plan of care. Based on this diagnosis, the nurse would teach the client about the need for frequent rest periods during the day to conserve energy. The joints of RA clients are usually stiffest in the morning, but that would not interfere with activities later in the day. Also, taking ibuprofen for pain does not affect the client's ability to engage in activity.
D)One hallmark symptom of RA is extreme fatigue. The client's statement regarding the need for a nap supports the inclusion of Activity Intolerance in the plan of care. Based on this diagnosis, the nurse would teach the client about the need for frequent rest periods during the day to conserve energy. The joints of RA clients are usually stiffest in the morning, but that would not interfere with activities later in the day. Also, taking ibuprofen for pain does not affect the client's ability to engage in activity.

The Nurse Is Collecting a Health History for a Client