What is the nurse's primary consideration when caring for a client with rheumatoid arthritis?

Choice A rationale:
Losing 2 pounds in 2 weeks is not a significant weight loss and may not be a cause for concern in this context. It's important to monitor weight trends over time, but this isolated statement doesn't necessarily require immediate discussion.
Choice B rationale:

Engaging in physical activity like swimming is generally beneficial for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. It can help improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and enhance overall well-being. The nurse might encourage the client to discuss any specific concerns or limitations with their healthcare provider, but the activity itself is not alarming.
Choice C rationale:
Taking an antibiotic concurrently with naproxen can potentially increase the risk of adverse effects. Some antibiotics, like those in the fluoroquinolone class (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin), can interact with naproxen and increase the risk of tendonitis or tendon rupture. This interaction warrants further discussion to ensure the client is aware of potential risks and to explore alternative medications if necessary.
Choice D rationale:
Using applesauce to facilitate medication intake is a common and acceptable practice. It does not affect the absorption or efficacy of naproxen.

Choice A rationale:
Pain management: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes pain, stiffness, swelling, and fatigue in the joints. Pain is often the most debilitating symptom of RA, and it can significantly impact a person's quality of life.

Therefore, the nurse's primary consideration is to ensure the client's comfort by effectively managing their pain. This may involve using a variety of interventions, such as:
Administering pain medications as prescribed Applying heat or cold therapy
Using assistive devices to reduce joint strain
Teaching the client about pain management techniques, such as relaxation exercises and pacing activities
Promoting rest and sleep: Rest and sleep are essential for healing and reducing inflammation. The nurse can encourage the client to rest during the day and to get enough sleep at night.
Creating a comfortable environment: The nurse can help to create a comfortable environment for the client by adjusting the room temperature, providing soft bedding and pillows, and reducing noise and distractions.
Providing emotional support: RA can be a challenging disease to live with, and it can take a toll on a person's emotional well- being. The nurse can provide emotional support by listening to the client's concerns, offering reassurance, and encouraging them to express their feelings.
Choice B rationale:
Motivation is important: While motivation is important for self-management of RA, it is not the primary consideration for the nurse. The nurse's focus is on providing comfort and addressing the client's immediate needs. Once the client's pain and other symptoms are managed, the nurse can then work with the client to develop a plan for managing their RA long-term. This may include providing education about the disease, teaching self-care strategies, and encouraging the client to participate in activities that promote physical and emotional well-being.
Choice C rationale:
Surgery may be an option: Surgery may be an option for some clients with RA, but it is not the primary consideration for the nurse. Surgery is typically considered only after other treatment options have failed to control the client's symptoms.
Choice D rationale:
Education is important: Education is an important part of managing RA, but it is not the primary consideration for the nurse. The nurse's focus is on providing comfort and addressing the client's immediate needs. Once the client's pain and other symptoms are managed, the nurse can then provide education about the disease and its management.