Rheumatoid Arthritis: Nursing Management

Question 1

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Nursing Management

Answer 1

1. Relieve pain and discomfort
2. Decrease pt fatigue
3. Promote restorative sleep
4. Increase pt mobility
5. Provide diet therapy
6. Increase mobility and prevent deformity

Question 2

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Nursing Management

Relieve pain and discomfort

Answer 2

Use splints to immobilize the affected extremity during acute stage of the disease and inflammation to reduce deformity

Administer prescribed medications

Suggest application of cold packs during the acute phase of pain, then HEAT application as the inflammation subsides

Question 3

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Nursing Management

Decrease pt fatigue

Answer 3

Schedule activity when pain is less severe

Provide adequate periods of rest

Question 4

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Nursing Management

Increase pt mobility

Answer 4

Advise proper posture and body mechanics

Support joint in functional position

Advise active ROME

Question 5

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Nursing Management

Provide diet therapy

Answer 5

Patients experience anorexia, nausea, and weight loss

Regular diet with caloric restrictions because steroids may increase appetite

Supplements of vitamins, iron, and protein

Question 6

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Nursing Management

Increase mobility and prevent deformity

Answer 6

Lie FLAT on a firm mattress

Lie PRONE several times to prevent HIP FLEXION contracture

Use one pillow under the head because of risk of dorsal kyphosis

NO PILLOW UNDER THE JOINTS because this promotes flexion contractures