Author Question: A client has rheumatoid arthritis that especially affects the hands. The client wants to finish ... (Read 74 times)

jessicacav · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A client has rheumatoid arthritis that especially affects the hands. The client wants to finish quilting a baby blanket before the birth of her grandchild. What response by the nurse is best?

a. Let's ask the provider about increasing your pain pills.
b. Hold ice bags against your hands before quilting.
c. Try a paraffin wax dip 20 minutes before you quilt.
d. You need to stop quilting before it destroys your fingers.

Question 2

A client has newly diagnosed systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). What instruction by the nurse is most important?

a. Be sure you get enough sleep at night.
b. Eat plenty of high-protein, high-iron foods.
c. Notify your provider at once if you get a fever.
d. Weigh yourself every day on the same scale.

morganmarie791 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Paraffin wax dips are beneficial for decreasing pain in arthritic hands and lead to increased mobility. The nurse can suggest this comfort measure. Increasing pain pills will not help with movement. Ice has limited use unless the client has a hot or exacerbated joint. The client wants to finish her project, so the nurse should not negate its importance by telling the client it is destroying her joints.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Fever is the classic sign of a lupus flare and should be reported immediately. Rest and nutrition are important but do not take priority over teaching the client what to do if he or she develops an elevated temperature. Daily weights may or may not be important depending on renal involvement.