Steven, 38 years old, was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and was given acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) as part of his medications. He asked the nurse why aspirin was ordered and even added "this is a child's medication." The nurse would explain that the main reason that aspirin is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis is to:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Aspirin acts as an anti-inflammatory drug and thus, reduces inflammation of the joints. In doing so, it also relieves pain. Aspirin does not prevent extension of the disease. While aspirin reduces fever, this is not a major reason for its use in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Steven, 38 Years Old, Was Diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Was