Rheumatoid Arthritis
What type of autoimmune disorder causes chronic inflammation of the synovial joints?
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
This symptom is considered the hallmark feature of inflammatory rheumatic disorders.
What is joint pain?
What blood tests are commonly elevated during inflammation?
What are ESR and CRP?
What type of medications are commonly given to reduce inflammation and pain?
What are anti-inflammatory medications?
What is the goal of teaching patients stress-management techniques?
What is reducing flare-ups and improving coping?
What tissue forms in rheumatoid arthritis and destroys cartilage and bone?
What is pannus?
What are the four classic inflammatory joint findings?
What are pain, swelling, stiffness, and warmth?
Which imaging study is best for detecting early synovitis and soft tissue damage?
What is MRI?
What teaching helps reduce fatigue in patients with rheumatic disease?
What are energy-conservation techniques?
Why is patient support from family and friends important?
To improve daily functioning and emotional support.
What symptom is commonly worse in the morning in patients with RA?
What is morning stiffness?
A patient with fatigue, weakness, and joint swelling is most likely experiencing what type of disorder?
What is an inflammatory rheumatic disorder?
What assessment evaluates a patient’s ability to dress, bathe, and walk independently?
What is functional assessment?
Name one healthcare service that helps improve mobility and ADLs.
What is physical therapy or occupational therapy?
What exercise is especially helpful for patients with rheumatic disease because it reduces joint stress?
What is pool exercise?
Which joints are commonly affected first in rheumatoid arthritis?
What are the small joints of the hands and wrists?
What term describes disease worsening after a period of remission?
What is an exacerbation or flare?
What important family history finding increases risk for rheumatic disease?
What is a family history of autoimmune or rheumatic disorders?
Why should patients alternate activity with rest periods?
To prevent fatigue and joint flare-ups.
What should the nurse encourage patients to verbalize?
What are feelings, fears, and frustrations?
What immune cells are first activated during the autoimmune response in RA?
What are T cells?
A patient suddenly develops severe joint redness, warmth, and fever. What serious complication should the nurse suspect first?
What is septic arthritis?
A nurse notes decreased ROM, swollen finger joints, and gait instability. Which assessment area is the priority?
What is musculoskeletal assessment?
What is the nurse’s priority teaching regarding medications like corticosteroids or immunosuppressants?
What is monitoring for side effects and infection?
A patient states, “No one believes how bad my pain is.” Which disorder commonly causes patients to feel misunderstood?
What is fibromyalgia?