An adult client, a smoker, has had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) for twelve years. When conducting discharge teaching, what should the nurse advise the client to avoid in order to prevent exacerbation of COPD?

Choice A reason: Corticosteroid cream was applied to eczema is not a useful information in determining the possible cause of the symptoms, because it is a treatment that can reduce the inflammation and itching of eczema, not a trigger that can worsen it. Corticosteroid cream should be used as prescribed by the doctor, and the nurse should instruct the client on how to apply it correctly and safely.

Choice B reason: A grandson and his new dog recently visited is a useful information in determining the possible cause of the symptoms, because it can indicate that the client was exposed to an allergen or an irritant that can trigger an eczema flare-up. Some people with eczema may have allergic reactions to animal dander, saliva, or fur, which can cause skin inflammation, redness, and itching. The nurse should ask the client about their history of allergies and their contact with the dog, and advise them to avoid or minimize exposure to potential allergens.

Choice C reason: An old friend with eczema came for a visit is not a useful information in determining the possible cause of the symptoms, because eczema is not a contagious condition that can be transmitted from person to person. Eczema is a chronic skin disorder that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin, and it is influenced by genetic, environmental, and immune factors. The nurse should reassure the client that eczema is not infectious and that they can maintain social relationships with other people with eczema.

Choice D reason: Recently received an influenza immunization is not a useful information in determining the possible cause of the symptoms, because there is no evidence that influenza immunization can cause or worsen eczema. Influenza immunization is a preventive measure that can protect the client from getting the flu, which can be a serious and sometimes fatal illness, especially for people with chronic conditions, such as eczema. The nurse should encourage the client to get vaccinated for influenza and other diseases, as recommended by the doctor.

Choice A reason: Rheumatoid factor is an antibody that is produced by the immune system and can bind to normal tissues, causing inflammation and damage. Rheumatoid factor is a marker of the autoimmune disease process that underlies rheumatoid arthritis, which is a chronic condition that affects the joints and other organs. A high level of rheumatoid factor can confirm the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and indicate the severity of the disease.

Choice B reason: Rheumatoid factor is not a specific indicator of kidney involvement in rheumatoid arthritis, which is a rare but possible complication of the disease. Kidney damage can occur due to inflammation of the blood vessels, medication side effects, or dehydration. Kidney function can be assessed by other laboratory tests, such as blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and urine analysis.

Choice C reason: Rheumatoid factor is not a direct cause of joint degeneration in rheumatoid arthritis, which is a progressive condition that leads to joint deformity and disability. Joint degeneration can occur due to chronic inflammation, erosion of cartilage and bone, and formation of nodules and cysts. Joint damage can be evaluated by physical examination, x-rays, and magnetic resonance imaging.

Choice D reason: Rheumatoid factor is not a reliable predictor of the client’s condition in rheumatoid arthritis, which is a variable and unpredictable disease that can have periods of remission and exacerbation. The client’s condition can be influenced by many factors, such as age, gender, genetics, lifestyle, and treatment. The client’s condition can be monitored by clinical symptoms, functional status, and quality of life.