Author Question: A client with peripheral neuropathy tells the nurse that at times his legs ache and he cannot get ... (Read 123 times)

Awilson837 · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

A client with peripheral neuropathy tells the nurse that at times his legs ache and he cannot get comfortable. The nursing diagnosis most appropriate for the client at this time would be:

1. Disturbed Sensory Perception
2. Anxiety
3. Pain
4. Ineffective Coping

Question 2

A client with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) asks the nurse if all clients with RA end up with crippling deformities. Which of the following actions by a client may decrease the likelihood of deformities? (Select all that apply.)

1. Stopping an activity if it is beyond their ability to perform
2. Ignoring pain as a warning signal
3. Typing instead of writing
4. Using stronger joints for an activity
5. Avoiding stress away from the deformity

cswans24 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

3. Pain

Rationale:
The client is describing leg aching and the inability to be comfortable. The nursing diagnosis most appropriate for the client at this time would be pain. The client may also have an alteration in sensory perception, anxiety, and ineffective coping, but the diagnosis of pain is the priority.

Answer to Question 2

1. Stopping an activity if it is beyond their ability to perform
3. Typing instead of writing
5. Using stronger joints for an activity

Rationale:
The client with RA should never attempt to push a joint beyond its ability. Writing requires using a strong grip, so typing is preferable. Using a stronger joint or part of the body, such as the palm, to carry items is preferable to grasping. Pain is a warning signal, and the client with RA should stop any activity causing pain. When performing a task, the client should avoid stress in the area of the deformity to help prevent further deformities.