Author Question: When reviewing the chart shown in the accompanying figure for a new patient with rheumatoid ... (Read 179 times)

KimWrice · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

When reviewing the chart shown in the accompanying figure for a new patient with rheumatoid arthritis, the nurse reads that the patient has swan neck deformities. Which deformity will the nurse expect to observe when assessing the patient?

a. A
b. B
c. C
d. D

Question 2

Which nursing action can the registered nurse (RN) delegate to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) who are assisting with the care of a patient with scleroderma?

a. Monitor for difficulty in breathing.
b. Document the patient's oral intake.
c. Check finger strength and movement.
d. Apply capsaicin (Zostrix) cream to hands.

Jadwiga9 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Swan neck deformity involves distal interphalangeal joint hyperflexion and proximal interphalangeal joint hyperextension of the hands. The other deformities are also associated with rheumatoid arthritis: ulnar drift, boutonniere deformity, and hallux vagus.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Monitoring and documenting patients' oral intake is included in UAP education and scope of practice. Assessments for changes in physical status and administration of medications require more education and scope of practice, and should be done by licensed nurses.