A 36-year-old woman presents with pain, aching, stiffness, and swelling in her hands for 6 months. She reports a family history of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Which of the following most closely describes the pathophysiology of RA?
RA is a connective tissue disease caused by a bacterial infection.
RA is an autoimmune disorder that results in joint inflammation caused by infection of the Epstein-Barr virus.
RA is an autoimmune disorder in which inflammation of the synovium leads to joint destruction and deformity.
RA is a progressive disease that damages or destroys synovial joint structure and articular cartilage of the joints.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: RA is not caused by bacterial infection. It is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovial lining of joints, leading to chronic inflammation and joint damage.
Choice B reason: Although Epstein-Barr virus has been studied as a potential environmental trigger, it is not the direct cause of RA. The disease is primarily autoimmune in nature, with genetic and environmental factors contributing to its development.
Choice C reason: RA involves autoimmune-mediated inflammation of the synovium, which leads to pannus formation, erosion of cartilage and bone, and ultimately joint deformity. This accurately describes the core pathophysiology of RA.
Choice D reason: While RA is progressive and does damage joint structures, this answer lacks specificity. It does not highlight the autoimmune mechanism or the central role of synovial inflammation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Structural group therapy may be beneficial for social skills and peer support but is not sufficient for managing medication nonadherence in chronic schizophrenia. It lacks the intensive, individualized outreach needed for this scenario.
Choice B reason: Inpatient hospitalization is appropriate for acute psychiatric crises, such as danger to self or others, but may not be necessary if the patient is stable and simply nonadherent. It is not a long-term solution for chronic management.
Choice C reason: Intensive outpatient programs provide structured treatment but may not offer the level of outreach and flexibility needed for patients who are resistant to care or disengaged from services.
Choice D reason: Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) is a multidisciplinary, team-based approach designed for individuals with severe mental illness who are nonadherent or difficult to engage. It includes outreach, medication management, and support in the community, making it the most appropriate choice for this client.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Excessive iodine intake can paradoxically inhibit thyroid hormone synthesis through the Wolff-Chaikoff effect, leading to hypothyroidism. This autoregulatory mechanism protects against hyperthyroidism but can result in reduced hormone production if iodine levels remain high.
Choice B reason: While iodine intake influences thyroid function, small changes do not “reset” the thyroid system. The thyroid gland responds to iodine availability, but regulation is more complex and involves feedback from TSH and circulating thyroid hormones.
Choice C reason: Iodine deficiency typically leads to hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism. In rare cases, iodine deficiency may cause goiter and nodular thyroid disease, which can result in hyperthyroidism, but this is not the usual outcome.
Choice D reason: Iodine is essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4). It is directly involved in thyroid regulation, and its absence or excess can significantly impact thyroid function.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.