A nurse is discussing prevention strategies with a client who has a family history of Rheumatoid Arthritis.
What lifestyle modifications should the nurse recommend to reduce the risk of developing the disease?

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.

Choice A rationale:

Advising the client to avoid maintaining a healthy weight is incorrect.

Maintaining a healthy weight is important in reducing the risk of developing Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Excess weight can place additional stress on the joints, increasing the risk of joint damage.

Choice B rationale:

Recommending that the client engage in regular exercise and maintain a balanced diet is the correct answer.

Lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise and a balanced diet can help reduce the risk of developing Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Exercise helps maintain joint health and overall well-being, while a balanced diet can support overall immune function and reduce inflammation.

Choice C rationale:

Suggesting that the client increase exposure to environmental toxins and infections is not appropriate.

Environmental toxins and infections are not known risk factors for developing Rheumatoid Arthritis.

In fact, exposure to toxins and infections may exacerbate the condition in those who already have RA.

Choice D rationale:

Advising the client to ignore any chronic inflammatory conditions is not appropriate.

Chronic inflammatory conditions may be risk factors for developing RA, and they should be managed appropriately.

Identifying and addressing any chronic inflammatory conditions can contribute to overall health and potentially reduce the risk of RA.

Questions