A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The nurse is assessing the client to determine the effectiveness of the current treatment regimen. Which finding would be the best indicator that the client's RA management is effective?
The client expresses feelings of frustration and difficulty coping with the chronic nature of RA.
The client's C-reactive protein (CRP) levels have remained stable since the initiation of treatment.
The client demonstrates improved range of motion in the affected joints during physical therapy sessions.
The client's radiographic images show no progression of joint erosion compared to images from six months ago.
The Correct Answer is D
A. The client expresses feelings of frustration and difficulty coping with the chronic nature of RA: This indicates the client is struggling emotionally, which is common in chronic illnesses but does not directly reflect the effectiveness of the RA treatment regimen.
B. The client's C-reactive protein (CRP) levels have remained stable since the initiation of treatment: While stable CRP levels can indicate control of inflammation, they do not show improvement. Ideally, effective treatment would reduce CRP levels.
C. The client demonstrates improved range of motion in the affected joints during physical therapy sessions: Improved range of motion is a positive outcome, but it may not fully represent the overall effectiveness of the RA treatment, as joint damage can still progress.
D. The client's radiographic images show no progression of joint erosion compared to images from six months ago: This is the best indicator of effective RA management as it directly shows that the treatment is preventing further joint damage, which is a primary goal in managing RA.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Assess the insertion site: Assessing the insertion site for bleeding, hematoma, or signs of infection is the priority action because complications at the insertion site can occur post- procedure and require immediate attention.
B. Keep the client NPO for 4 hr: Keeping the client NPO is not typically necessary after a cardiac catheterization unless there are specific orders or complications.
C. Keep the affected leg slightly flexed: The affected leg should actually be kept straight to prevent bleeding from the insertion site.
D. Elevate the head of the bed 45°: The head of the bed should usually be kept flat or only slightly elevated to reduce the risk of bleeding from the femoral site.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. The client has a history of bronchial asthma: Propranolol is a non-selective beta-blocker and can potentially exacerbate bronchospasm in individuals with asthma due to its beta-blocking effects on beta-2 receptors in the bronchioles. Therefore, this finding should be reported to the provider for further assessment and consideration of alternative medications.
B. The client has a history of migraine headaches: Propranolol is commonly used prophylactically to prevent migraine headaches, so this finding is not a contraindication for its use and does not require immediate reporting to the provider.
C. The client has a history of hypertension: Propranolol is often prescribed for hypertension, so this finding is expected and not a cause for concern.
D. The client has a history of hypothyroidism: While propranolol can affect thyroid function tests, a history of hypothyroidism alone is not a contraindication for its use, and it does not
require immediate reporting to the provider. However, thyroid function should be monitored during therapy.
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