The health nurse is dealing with a case of untreated chlamydial infection. The nurse suspects the patient has developed Reiter syndrome. Which of the following clinical manifestations would support this diagnosis? Select all that apply.
A) Diffuse pinkness of the conjunctiva along with watery and itchy eyes
B) Asymmetric complaints of stiffness and pain in knees and sacroiliac joints
C) Cervical tissue very friable and bleeds easily
D) Pain when urinating
E) Fatigue and tiredness from heart valve vegetation

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most serious complication of untreated chlamydial infection is the development of Reiter syndrome. This triad of symptoms includes urethritis, conjunctivitis, and arthritis of weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and sacroiliac and vertebral joints. Pain when urinating occurs in both men and women and is associated with urethritis. Women can also develop reactive arthritis, but the male-to-female ratio for this complication is 5:1. The arthritis begins 1 to 3 weeks after the onset of chlamydial infection. The joint involvement is asymmetric, with multiple affected joints and a predilection of the lower extremities. Cervical tissue friability is not part of Reiter syndrome.

The Health Nurse Is Dealing with a Case of Untreated