A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Which assessment finding does the nurse expect to assess?

Question

A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).  Which assessment finding does the nurse expect to assess?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

11ecbb05_ca14_47aa_b433_1be579932ccc_MD0009_00 Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic, inflammatory, autoimmune condition of unknown origin that has periods of exacerbation and remission. The body's immune system attacks the lining of the joints, leading to bone erosion and joint deformity. Although there is no cure for the disease, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help limit localized joint destruction and systemic organ damage. Characteristic features of RA include the following: Symmetrical pain and swelling that initially affects the small joints of the hands and feet Morning joint stiffness that lasts from 60 minutes to several hours Elevated ESR and rheumatoid factor levels (Option A) Asymmetrical pain in the weight bearing joints is characteristic of osteoarthritis. Crepitus, especially over the knee joints, is also present in osteoarthritis. (Option B) Low back pain and stiffness, worse in the morning and improving as the day progresses, is characteristic of ankylosing spondylitis. RA typically does not involve the spine, except the cervical spine. (Option C) Pain, swelling, and redness of one or more extremity joints (typically the great toe) are characteristic of acute gout attack. gout Educational objective: RA is a chronic, systemic, inflammatory, autoimmune disease of unknown origin. Early localized articular symptoms include bilateral, symmetrical pain and swelling that initially affects the small joints of the wrists, hands, and feet and morning joint stiffness that lasts at least an hour.

A Nurse Is Caring for a Client Diagnosed with Rheumatoid