A nurse is assessing a client with suspected rheumatoid arthritis.
Which clinical presentation is characteristic of this condition?
"My knees are swollen and painful.”
"I experience morning stiffness for about 30 minutes.”
"I often have a high-grade fever.”
"My skin becomes dry and itchy.”
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Swollen and painful knees are common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA); however, they are not the most characteristic presentation.
The hallmark of RA is joint stiffness, especially in the morning.
Choice B rationale:
Morning stiffness lasting for about 30 minutes or longer is a classic and characteristic symptom of rheumatoid arthritis.
It results from inflammation in the synovial joints, making this the correct choice.
Choice C rationale:
Having a high-grade fever is not a typical presentation of rheumatoid arthritis.
Fever may indicate an infection or another underlying condition but is not specific to RA.
Choice D rationale:
Dry and itchy skin is not a common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis.
It is more likely related to dermatological or allergic conditions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Swollen and painful knees are common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA); however, they are not the most characteristic presentation.
The hallmark of RA is joint stiffness, especially in the morning.
Choice B rationale:
Morning stiffness lasting for about 30 minutes or longer is a classic and characteristic symptom of rheumatoid arthritis.
It results from inflammation in the synovial joints, making this the correct choice.
Choice C rationale:
Having a high-grade fever is not a typical presentation of rheumatoid arthritis.
Fever may indicate an infection or another underlying condition but is not specific to RA.
Choice D rationale:
Dry and itchy skin is not a common symptom of rheumatoid arthritis.
It is more likely related to dermatological or allergic conditions.
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.
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