A nurse is assessing a patient with Ankylosing Spondylitis.
Which of the following clinical manifestations should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply).

Choice A rationale:

"Encouraging the patient to avoid all physical activity to prevent joint damage." Rationale: This statement is not appropriate.

While rest during periods of active inflammation may be necessary, complete avoidance of physical activity is not recommended.

Physical activity and exercise, when tailored to the individual's condition, can help maintain joint flexibility and reduce pain in Ankylosing Spondylitis.

Choice B rationale:

"Administering corticosteroids to suppress the immune response." Rationale: Corticosteroids may be used in the short term to control acute inflammation in Ankylosing Spondylitis but are not typically used as a long-term treatment due to their side effects.

They are not a primary intervention for managing the condition.

Choice C rationale:

"Teaching the patient exercises to improve posture and flexibility." Rationale: This statement is appropriate.

Teaching the patient exercises to improve posture and flexibility is an essential nursing intervention for managing Ankylosing Spondylitis.

These exercises can help maintain spinal mobility and reduce the risk of deformities.

Choice D rationale:

"Recommending a high-sugar diet to boost energy levels." Rationale: Recommending a high-sugar diet is not appropriate.

Ankylosing S .

Questions

Choice A rationale:

"Limited range of motion in the spine." Rationale: Limited range of motion in the spine is a common clinical manifestation of Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS).

The inflammation and eventual fusion of the spinal vertebrae can lead to stiffness and reduced flexibility in the spine.

Choice B rationale:

"Pain and stiffness in the back and pelvis." Rationale: Pain and stiffness in the back and pelvis are hallmark symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis.

These symptoms are typically worse in the morning and improve with physical activity.

Choice C rationale:

"Swelling and redness in the fingers and toes." Rationale: Swelling and redness in the fingers and toes are not typical clinical manifestations of Ankylosing Spondylitis.

These symptoms are more characteristic of other rheumatic conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Choice D rationale:

"Fatigue and muscle weakness." Rationale: Fatigue and muscle weakness can be associated with Ankylosing Spondylitis, especially when the disease is active.

Chronic inflammation and pain can lead to fatigue, and muscle weakness may occur as a result of reduced physical activity.

Choice E rationale:

"Skin rashes and lesions." Rationale: Skin rashes and lesions are not common clinical manifestations of Ankylosing Spondylitis.

These symptoms are more commonly associated with other autoimmune or dermatological conditions.