Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Practice Questions

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Questions and Answers

A client with rheumatoid arthritis reports increased joint pain and stiffness, especially in the morning. Which intervention should the nurse recommend first?

  • Begin a high-impact exercise program to increase joint mobility.
  • Apply cold packs to the affected joints for 30 minutes before activity.
  • Take a warm shower or bath upon awakening. (correct)
  • Increase the dosage of prescribed NSAIDs immediately.

A client with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed methotrexate. What information is most important for the nurse to emphasize regarding this medication?

  • The client should avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication. (correct)
  • The medication will provide immediate pain relief.
  • Methotrexate is safe to take during pregnancy.
  • The client should increase their intake of leafy green vegetables.

A nurse is teaching a client with rheumatoid arthritis about joint protection strategies. Which of the following instructions is most appropriate?

  • Use larger joints (like your shoulder) for carrying items. (correct)
  • Hold objects tightly in your fist to prevent dropping them.
  • Avoid using assistive devices to keep your muscles strong.
  • Maintain one position for extended periods to stabilize joints.

A client with rheumatoid arthritis is experiencing a flare-up. Which assessment finding would the nurse expect to observe?

<p>Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client with rheumatoid arthritis is concerned about the deformities developing in their hands. What is the nurse's most appropriate response?

<p>‘Let’s discuss strategies to manage pain and protect your joints to slow the progression of these changes.’ (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is evaluating a client's understanding of self-care activities for rheumatoid arthritis. Which statement indicates a need for further teaching?

<p>‘I can stop taking my medications when my pain is well-controlled.’ (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client with rheumatoid arthritis reports difficulty sleeping due to pain. Which of the following nursing interventions would be most appropriate to recommend?

<p>Recommend a warm bath or relaxation techniques before bed. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A nurse is planning care for a client with rheumatoid arthritis. Which of the following is the priority nursing intervention?

<p>Managing pain and inflammation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client with rheumatoid arthritis asks the nurse about dietary recommendations. Which of the following suggestions is most appropriate?

<p>Consume a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed prednisone. Which potential side effect is most important for the nurse to monitor?

<p>Increased risk of infection. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

A chronic autoimmune disorder primarily affecting the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and potential joint damage.

Key characteristics of RA

Morning stiffness lasting longer than 30 minutes, affecting multiple joints symmetrically, and presence of rheumatoid factor or anti-CCP antibodies.

Treatment for RA

Non-pharmacological interventions include rest, exercise, joint protection, assistive devices, and weight management; pharmacological treatments involve DMARDs (e.g., methotrexate), NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and biologics.

Nursing management for RA

Joint deformity, decreased range of motion, pain management, fatigue, and psychological support.

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Key assessments in RA

Evaluate joints for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion; assess pain levels and functional ability; monitor for extra-articular manifestations (e.g., nodules, vasculitis).

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Patient education in RA

Educate patients on medication management, importance of adherence, strategies for joint protection, energy conservation techniques, and psychosocial support resources.

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Important Methotrexate Monitoring

Methotrexate, a DMARD, can cause liver toxicity and bone marrow suppression. Monitor liver function tests and CBC regularly.

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Balance in activity and rest

Encourage periods of rest to reduce joint stress, but also promote regular exercise to maintain joint mobility and muscle strength. Balance is key.

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Joint protection strategies

Use adaptive devices (e.g., jar openers, button hooks) to protect joints from stress during daily activities.

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RA complications to monitor

Rheumatoid nodules, vasculitis, and cardiovascular complications.

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Study Notes

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Practice Questions

  • A nurse is assessing a client with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

    • Fatigue
    • Symmetric joint pain and swelling
    • Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
    • All of the above
  • A client with RA is prescribed methotrexate. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

    • "I will avoid alcohol while taking this medication."
    • "I need to monitor my liver function with blood tests."
    • "I will take folic acid supplements as prescribed."
    • "If I get pregnant, I will stop taking this medication immediately."
  • A nurse is teaching a client with RA about managing fatigue. Which of the following strategies should the nurse recommend?

    • Take frequent rest periods throughout the day
    • Engage in regular, low-impact exercise
    • Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
    • All of the above
  • A client with RA is experiencing a flare-up. Which of the following interventions would be most appropriate?

    • Encourage increased activity to prevent stiffness
    • Apply heat to the affected joints for 15-20 minutes several times a day
    • Administer NSAIDs as prescribed for pain and inflammation
    • Suggest the client increase their intake of red meat to improve iron levels
  • A nurse is evaluating a client's understanding of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Which statement indicates effective teaching?

    • "DMARDs provide immediate pain relief."
    • "DMARDs can slow down the progression of RA."
    • "DMARDs are safe to use during pregnancy."
    • "DMARDs have no significant side effects."
  • Which of the following is a priority nursing intervention for a client experiencing an acute exacerbation of RA?

    • Encouraging weight-bearing exercises
    • Providing assistive devices to protect joints
    • Initiating range-of-motion exercises to maintain joint mobility
    • Administering immunosuppressants to reduce the immune response
  • A client with RA reports difficulty performing activities of daily living (ADLs). Which healthcare team member should the nurse consult?

    • Physical therapist
    • Occupational therapist
    • Speech therapist
    • Respiratory therapist
  • A nurse is teaching a client about non-pharmacological pain management techniques for RA. Which of the following should be included?

    • Acupuncture
    • Massage therapy
    • Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
    • All of the above
  • A client with RA is at risk for developing which of the following complications?

    • Osteoporosis
    • Cardiovascular disease
    • Infection
    • All of the above
  • Which of the following laboratory tests is most specific for diagnosing RA?

    • Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
    • C-reactive protein (CRP)
    • Rheumatoid factor (RF)
    • Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibody

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