A client with an acute exacerbation of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has localized pain and inflammation of the fingers and feet, swelling, redness, restricted joint motion, and reports feeling fatigued. Which nursing problem has the highest priority for this client?

Fatigue related to disease exacerbation.

Pain related to joint inflammation

Impaired physical mobility related to joint pain.

Self-care deficit related to disease progression.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A.   This is a valid nursing problem and directly related to the client's condition. However, while fatigue is a significant concern, it is often a symptom of other underlying issues.

B.   This is the highest priority nursing problem. Pain is a primary symptom of acute RA exacerbation and significantly impacts the client's quality of life, mobility, and overall well-being. Addressing pain is crucial for immediate comfort and to facilitate other interventions.
C.   This is also a valid nursing problem, directly linked to the client's symptoms. However, it is a consequence of the pain, not the primary issue. Addressing the pain will improve mobility.
D.   This is a potential long-term concern but not the highest priority at this acute stage. The client's immediate needs related to pain and mobility are more pressing.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Vital signs are critical for assessing the client’s current hemodynamic status. Coffee-ground emesis can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, which might lead to complications like hypovolemia or shock.

Vital signs can provide essential information about the client’s condition and help determine the urgency of intervention. Checking vital signs is a priority in assessing the severity of the situation and guiding further actions.
B. Measuring abdominal girth is useful in assessing for abdominal distention or fluid accumulation, which can be relevant in some gastrointestinal conditions. However, in the immediate context of coffee- ground emesis, the most urgent concern is evaluating the client's hemodynamic stability rather than focusing on abdominal girth.
C. Flushing of the skin might be relevant in certain contexts (e.g., reactions to medications or infections), but it is not directly related to the immediate concern of gastrointestinal bleeding and the client’s hemodynamic status. It is less critical compared to assessing vital signs in this situation.
D. While auscultating breath sounds is important for evaluating respiratory status and detecting any pulmonary complications, it is not the immediate priority in the context of coffee-ground emesis. The primary concern should be assessing for signs of hemodynamic instability that may result from gastrointestinal bleeding.

A. Initiate a referral for ophthalmic evaluation as soon as possible. B. Advise the client to maintain normal activities, but avoid contact sports until the spots resolve C. Instruct the client to rest, and report to the emergency department if eye pain develops. D. Tell the client to apply warm, moist compresses and notify the healthcare provider if there is no improvement.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. The sudden onset of flashing lights and floaters can be a symptom of a detached retina, a serious eye condition that requires immediate medical attention.
B. This is incorrect. The client should not engage in any activities until the condition is evaluated by a healthcare professional.
C. While rest might seem appropriate, the client should seek immediate medical attention due to the potential seriousness of the symptoms.
D. Warm compresses are not indicated for this condition, and the client should seek immediate medical attention.

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A client with an acute exacerbation of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has localized pain and inflammation of the fingers and feet, swelling, redness, restricted joint motion, and reports feeling fatigued. Which nursing problem has the highest priority for this client?

Nursing Test Bank

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