Author Question: A client has been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. The client has experienced increased fatigue ... (Read 36 times)

Starlight · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A client has been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. The client has experienced increased fatigue and worsening physical status and is finding it difficult to maintain the role of elder in his cultural community.

The elder is expected to attend social events and make community decisions. Stress seems to exacerbate the condition. What action by the nurse is best?

a.
Assess the client's culture more thoroughly.
b.
Discuss options for performing duties.
c.
See if the client will call a community meeting.
d.
Suggest the client give up the role of elder.

Question 2

A client has fibromyalgia and is prescribed duloxetine hydrochloride (Cymbalta). The client calls the clinic and asks the nurse why an antidepressant drug has been prescribed. What response by the nurse is best?

a. A little sedation will help you get some rest.
b. Depression often accompanies fibromyalgia.
c. This drug works in the brain to decrease pain.
d. You will have more energy after taking this drug.

phuda · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
The nurse needs a more thorough understanding of the client's culture, including the meaning of illness and the ramifications of the elder not being able to perform traditional duties. This must be done prior to offering any possible solutions. If the nurse does not understand the consequences of what is suggested, the client may simply be unwilling to listen or participate in problem solving. The other options may be reasonable depending on the outcome of a better cultural understanding.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Duloxetine works to increase the release of the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine, which reduces the pain from fibromyalgia. The other answers are inaccurate.