A nurse is caring for a patient who has acute osteomyelitis.
Which of the following interventions is the nurse's priority?

Choice A rationale

Intestinal parasites can cause anemia through various mechanisms, such as blood loss, nutrient malabsorption, and inflammation. However, this is not a direct manifestation of ulcerative colitis itself but rather a separate potential cause of anemia in any individual. Ulcerative colitis primarily affects the colon and rectum.

Choice B rationale

Chronic blood loss is a significant contributing factor to anemia in patients with ulcerative colitis. The inflammation and ulceration of the colonic mucosa lead to bleeding into the intestinal lumen. Over time, this persistent blood loss can result in iron deficiency anemia, characterized by low hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Normal hemoglobin ranges are typically 13.5 to 17.5 g/dL for men and 12.0 to 15.5 g/dL for women.

Choice C rationale

Intestinal malabsorption syndrome can lead to anemia by impairing the absorption of essential nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, and folate, which are crucial for red blood cell production. While malabsorption can occur in inflammatory bowel diseases, it is more commonly associated with Crohn's disease, which affects the entire gastrointestinal tract, rather than primarily ulcerative colitis.

Choice D rationale

Dietary iron restrictions would limit the intake of a necessary component for hemoglobin synthesis, potentially leading to or exacerbating anemia. However, this is an external factor and not a manifestation of ulcerative colitis itself. In fact, patients with ulcerative colitis are often encouraged to maintain a diet rich in iron-containing foods to compensate for blood loss.

Choice A rationale

Peripheral edema can occur in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) due to various factors like kidney involvement or heart issues. While it should be monitored, it is not typically the highest priority finding compared to signs of acute organ involvement.

Choice B rationale

Joint pain is a common symptom of SLE due to inflammation in the joints. While it affects the patient's quality of life, it is usually a chronic manifestation rather than an acute, life-threatening concern.

Choice C rationale

A dry, raised rash on the face, particularly a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and bridge of the nose, is a classic and specific sign of an SLE flare. This rash can indicate active disease and potential systemic involvement, making it a high priority for the provider to assess and manage.

Choice D rationale

Feelings of depression are common in patients with chronic illnesses like SLE and should be addressed for the patient's mental well-being. However, a new or worsening physical symptom indicative of active disease, such as the characteristic rash, takes higher priority in terms of immediate medical assessment and intervention. .