A client with rheumatoid arthritis asks the nurse about treatment options.
Which statement accurately describes a treatment approach for RA?
"You should only consider surgery for joint replacement.”
"Rest and physical therapy are the primary treatment methods.”
"Pain relief is achieved through antibiotics.”
"Corticosteroids are the first-line therapy for RA.”
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Surgery for joint replacement is considered in cases of severe joint damage, but it is not the primary treatment method for rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Therefore, this is an incorrect choice.
Choice B rationale:
Rest and physical therapy are essential components of the treatment plan for RA.
Rest helps reduce joint inflammation, and physical therapy can improve joint function and reduce pain.
This is the correct choice.
Choice C rationale:
Antibiotics are not used to treat rheumatoid arthritis.
RA is an autoimmune disease, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are the standard medications used to manage it.
Choice D rationale:
Corticosteroids are used in the treatment of RA, but they are not typically considered the first-line therapy.
DMARDs are usually initiated first, and corticosteroids may be added if needed for symptom control.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Teaching the patient that they don't need to take medications if they feel fine is incorrect.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that requires continuous management.
Even when patients feel fine, they should adhere to their prescribed medications and treatment regimens to prevent disease progression and manage symptoms.
Choice B rationale:
Encouraging the patient to adhere to prescribed medications and treatment regimens is the correct answer.
The nurse's role in educating a patient with RA is to emphasize the importance of compliance with medication and treatment plans.
RA is a progressive disease, and timely intervention is crucial in preventing joint damage and deformities.
Medications such as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can help control inflammation and slow down the progression of the disease.
Choice C rationale:
Advising the patient to avoid exercise to prevent joint stress is incorrect.
Exercise is an essential component of RA management.
It helps maintain joint mobility, strengthen muscles around the joints, and improve overall function.
The nurse should encourage the patient to engage in appropriate and recommended exercises as part of their treatment plan.
Choice D rationale:
Recommending the patient rely solely on emotional support to cope with the disease is incorrect.
While emotional support is valuable in managing chronic conditions like RA, it is not a substitute for medical treatment and adherence to prescribed medications.
Patients should have a comprehensive treatment plan that includes medical management, physical therapy, and emotional support.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
This statement is incorrect.
RA does not occur when the immune system attacks the bones; it primarily affects the synovial joints.
Choice B rationale:
This statement is incorrect.
While inflammation is a hallmark of RA, it is not caused by a viral infection.
Choice C rationale:
This statement is correct.
Chronic inflammation in RA damages the synovial membrane, leading to joint destruction and deformities, which are characteristic of the disease.
Choice D rationale:
This statement is incorrect.
RA is not characterized by a thickening of the cartilage in the joints.
Instead, it primarily affects the synovium and can lead to cartilage damage over time.
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.