A client is admitted to the hospital during an exacerbation of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Which of the following nursing interventions are appropriate for a client experiencing an RA flare? (Select all that apply.)
Place client on total bedrest and avoid use of affected joints
Provide warm compresses to affected joints
Place several pillows under the head to keep the neck in a flexed position
Place the client on continuous cardiac monitoring
Administer methylprednisolone as ordered
Correct Answer : B,E
A. Total bedrest is generally not recommended. It is important to balance rest with gentle movement to maintain joint function and prevent stiffness. Instead of complete bedrest, promoting periods of rest
while allowing for limited activity as tolerated is more appropriate. Avoiding use of affected joints may be beneficial during acute inflammation but complete immobilization can lead to muscle atrophy and joint stiffness.
B. Applying warm compresses to affected joints can help relieve stiffness and pain associated with RA. Warmth can improve blood flow and reduce muscle tension around the joints. This intervention is typically beneficial during periods of stiffness and can help increase comfort. However, cold compresses may also be used during acute inflammation to reduce swelling.
C. Placing pillows to keep the neck in a flexed position is not advisable for RA patients. It can cause discomfort and potentially worsen joint and muscle issues. Proper positioning should support natural body alignment, and patients should be encouraged to maintain a neutral neck position to avoid additional strain.
D. Continuous cardiac monitoring is not a routine intervention for RA exacerbations unless there is an indication of cardiac involvement or complications. RA itself does not typically require continuous cardiac monitoring.
E. Methylprednisolone is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and manage RA symptoms during flares. Administering it as ordered is an appropriate intervention to control inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. This blood pressure and heart rate are within normal ranges for most patients. For example, a blood pressure of 132/60 mmHg is slightly elevated on the systolic side but not critically so, and a heart rate of 90 beats per minute is within the normal range (60-100 beats per minute).
B. Continuous bladder irrigation is used to prevent clots and debris from obstructing the urinary tract after a TURP. If the output from the Foley catheter has stopped, it may indicate a blockage or clot in the catheter or bladder, which can lead to bladder distension, discomfort, and potential kidney damage.
Immediate reporting to the provider is crucial because this could indicate a severe complication.
C. Pain levels are subjective, and a pain level of 5/10 indicates moderate discomfort. While pain management is important, a pain level of 5/10 is not unusual after TURP, and it can often be managed with appropriate pain relief measures.
D. Pink-colored urine is not uncommon immediately following a TURP as a result of bleeding or irritation from the procedure. This finding can be expected and may not indicate an immediate complication.
However, if the urine color changes to bright red or if there is a significant increase in blood, it could be more concerning.
Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"B"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"B"}}
Explanation
1. Begin Broad Spectrum IV Antibiotics Anticipated
The client's symptoms, including right upper quadrant pain, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, fever, and elevated white blood cell count, suggest a potential infection or inflammation in the abdominal area, possibly related to the biliary system (e.g., cholecystitis or cholangitis). Broad-spectrum antibiotics are commonly used to treat infections that could be causing these symptoms, especially if the exact pathogen is not yet identified. The elevated white blood cell count further supports the likelihood of an infection.
2. Transfuse 1 Unit of Packed Red Blood Cells Contraindicated
There is no indication from the provided information that the client has anemia or a significant drop in hemoglobin that would necessitate a blood transfusion. The hemoglobin level is 15.1 g/dL, which is within normal limits. Blood transfusion would typically be considered if there was evidence of significant blood loss or anemia, neither of which is indicated by the client’s current lab results.
3. Prepare Client for Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) Anticipated
The symptoms described, including right upper quadrant pain radiating to the right shoulder, jaundice, and the dark amber urine, are suggestive of biliary tract involvement, such as gallstones causing obstruction or infection. ERCP is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure used to visualize and treat conditions of the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts. Given the symptoms and clinical presentation, preparing the client for an ERCP to assess and potentially address issues in the biliary system is appropriate.
4. Administer Morphine Sulfate IV Push for Pain Contraindicated
The client has a documented allergy to morphine. Administering morphine could lead to an allergic reaction and is therefore contraindicated. Alternative pain management options should be considered, such as non-opioid analgesics or other opioid medications that the client is not allergic to.
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.