A client with Raynaud's disease is seeking advice on how to manage episodes when they occur. Which of the following interventions should the nurse recommend?

A) A positive rheumatoid factor (RF) test is not specific to Raynaud's disease. It may be present in other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

B) Presence of autoimmune antibodies may indicate an underlying autoimmune disorder, but it is not the definitive diagnostic criteria for Raynaud's disease.

C) The definitive diagnosis of Raynaud's disease is based on the clinical history and physical examination findings. Characteristic symptoms, such as episodic color changes in response to cold or stress, along with a physical examination showing pallor, cyanosis, and rubor of the affected areas, help confirm the diagnosis.

D) Biopsy of affected skin tissue is not routinely performed to diagnose Raynaud's disease. The diagnosis is typically made based on clinical presentation and examination.

A) Elevated blood pressure readings are not directly related to Raynaud's disease. While the condition can affect blood flow to the extremities, it does not cause consistently elevated blood pressure.

B) Hyperactive reflexes in the extremities are not typically associated with Raynaud's disease. These reflexes may be indicative of other neurological issues.

C) Skin thickening and tightening on the fingers are characteristic features of systemic sclerosis, which is a condition often associated with secondary Raynaud's disease. The combination of Raynaud's symptoms with skin changes may raise suspicion for an underlying autoimmune disorder.

D) Abnormal blood clotting tests are not specific to Raynaud's disease. Raynaud's primarily involves vasospasm and decreased blood flow, rather than abnormal clotting.