Answer to Question 1
ANS: B
Sun exposure is a frequent cause of SLE exacerbations, so patients with SLE must use sunscreen and avoid prolonged time in the sun. This decreases vitamin D synthesis, which is required to metabolize and utilize calcium, leading to increased risk of osteoporosis. A side effect of steroid use is also osteoporosis, so patients with SLE (women especially) need to guard against this occurrence by adding supplemental vitamin D. NSAIDs are best for the pain and inflammation that accompany SLE. The patient does not have to be sedentary; a balance of rest and activity is needed. Pregnancy is not absolutely contraindicated in the patient with SLE; however, it must be considered cautiously in consultation with the health-care provider.
Answer to Question 2
ANS: A
The diagnostic workup for SLE is indeed complex, but many of the tests are done to determine if organ damage has already occurred and to obtain a baseline to which future tests can be compared. The other options are vague and do not really answer the parent's questions.
The nurse conducts the health history as the first step in the nursing assessment
The proportion of men and women with elevated blood pressure or taking hypertension medication incre
Common Health Problems Requiring Rehabilitation
Systemic Glucocorticosteroids
Systemic Circulation
What do epigenetics do for our health?