What is the nurse's primary consideration when caring for a client with rheumatoid arthritis?
Comfort
Motivation
Surgery
Education
The Correct Answer is A
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale for Choice A:
Phenytoin is an anticonvulsant medication used to control seizures. It is typically a long-term medication, and abruptly stopping it can lead to breakthrough seizures or worsen existing seizures.
This statement indicates that the client may not understand the importance of taking phenytoin consistently and the potential consequences of discontinuing it without consulting their doctor.
Rationale for Choice B:
Making an appointment with a dentist is important for all individuals, including those with seizure disorders. There is no specific concern related to phenytoin and dental care that would necessitate further teaching in this context.
Rationale for Choice C:
It is important for clients to understand that switching brands of phenytoin might affect its effectiveness due to slight variations in formulation. However, simply stating awareness of this fact does not necessarily indicate a need for further teaching, as the nurse can assess the client's understanding through further questioning.
Rationale for Choice D:
Notifying a doctor before taking any new medications is crucial for individuals with seizures, as some medications can interact with phenytoin and increase the risk of seizures. This statement demonstrates the client's understanding of an important safety precaution.
Therefore, Choice A is the only statement that suggests a potential lack of understanding about the long-term nature of phenytoin treatment and the dangers of discontinuing it without medical supervision. This highlights the need for further education to ensure the client's safety and adherence to the prescribed medication regimen.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Candidiasis, also known as thrush, is a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans. It commonly affects the mouth, causing white patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or tonsils.
Individuals with AIDS often have weakened immune systems due to a decreased CD4 T-cell count. This makes them more susceptible to opportunistic infections like candidiasis.
The fungal infection can spread to the esophagus, causing difficulty swallowing, or even to the bloodstream, leading to more serious complications.
Choice B rationale:
Xerostomia refers to dry mouth. It can be caused by various factors, including medications, salivary gland dysfunction, or radiation therapy. While it can occur in individuals with AIDS, it's not directly linked to a decreased CD4 T-cell count.
Choice C rationale:
Halitosis, or bad breath, can have multiple causes, including poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or digestive issues. It's not specifically associated with AIDS or a decreased CD4 T-cell count.
Choice D rationale:
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums, often caused by plaque buildup. It's a common condition, but it's not directly linked to AIDS or a decreased CD4 T-cell count.
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