An older adult client with a history of heart failure is admitted with influenza and requests assistance to sit up in bed to eat lunch. The nurse observes the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) wearing a gown and gloves to assist the client. Which action should the nurse take?

Rationale for Correct Choices:

• Impaired physical mobility: Rheumatoid arthritis leads to joint inflammation, stiffness, and potential deformities. These symptoms may result in decreased range of motion and difficulty with physical movements, contributing to impaired mobility.
• Acute pain: RA causes acute inflammation in the joints, resulting in pain, especially during flare-ups. The client experiences pain and stiffness in the hands and wrists, which aligns with the acute pain risk associated with RA.
• Knowledge deficit: Newly diagnosed RA patients often lack understanding about the disease process, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications. The nurse needs to recognize that the client requires education to manage their condition effectively and understand the long-term implications.

Rationale for Incorrect Choices:

• Electrolyte imbalance: Electrolyte imbalances are not a typical complication of rheumatoid arthritis. While certain medications used to treat RA (like corticosteroids) can impact electrolyte levels, this is not an immediate concern or a direct risk associated with RA itself.

Rationale:

• Can be caused by aging: Both arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome are linked to aging. In arthritis, wear and tear on joints over time causes conditions like osteoarthritis. Carpal tunnel syndrome increases with age due to changes in wrist anatomy and nerve compression.
• Inflammatory disease process: Arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis, is inflammatory, causing joint pain and damage. Carpal tunnel syndrome, however, is caused by mechanical compression of the median nerve, not by inflammation.
• Finger numbness: Numbness in the fingers is common with carpal tunnel syndrome due to median nerve compression. While arthritis can cause pain and stiffness in joints, it does not typically cause finger numbness unless there's significant nerve involvement.
• Experience difficulty with fine motor movements: Both conditions can impair fine motor skills. Arthritis causes pain and stiffness in joints, while carpal tunnel syndrome affects nerve function, leading to weakness and difficulty performing precise tasks like writing or holding small objects.
• May have a genetic component: Arthritis has a genetic predisposition. Carpal tunnel syndrome does not have a strong genetic link but can be influenced by individual anatomical factors, such as a narrower carpal tunnel.