Author Question: The nurse is caring for a client with arthritis. The client would like to explore the use of an ... (Read 52 times)

bb · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

The nurse is caring for a client with arthritis. The client would like to explore the use of an inexpensive natural alternative to anti-inflammatory drugs. Which remedy would the nurse recommend?

1. Chondroitin
2. Glucosamine sulfate
3. Echinacea
4. Black cohosh

Question 2

A client is taking colchicine for gouty arthritis. What should the nurse include in the medication teaching for this client regarding adverse reactions?

1. GI upset is common.
2. The client should be monitored for signs of bleeding.
3. Skin rashes are common.
4. The client should call the physician if there is no improvement in gout symptoms.

jaygar71 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

2

Rationale 1: Chondroitin sulfate is a dietary supplement that forms part of the matrix between cartilage cells, and is usually combined with glucosamine in specific arthritis formulas.
Rationale 2: Glucosamine sulfate is a natural substance that is an important building block of cartilage. With aging, glucosamine is lost with the natural thinning of cartilage. Although reliable long-term studies are not available, glucosamine is marketed as a safe and inexpensive alternative to prescription anti-inflammatory drugs.
Rationale 3: Echinacea is used as an immune system booster.
Rationale 4: Black cohosh has been reported to help with menopausal symptoms.

Global Rationale: Glucosamine sulfate is a natural substance that is an important building block of cartilage. With aging, glucosamine is lost with the natural thinning of cartilage. Although reliable long-term studies are not available, glucosamine is marketed as a safe and inexpensive alternative to prescription anti-inflammatory drugs. Chondroitin sulfate is another dietary supplement thatforms part of the matrix between cartilage cells, and is usually combined with glucosamine in specific arthritis formulas. Echinacea is used as an immune system booster. Black cohosh has been reported to help with menopausal symptoms.

Answer to Question 2

1

Rationale 1: Colchicine may cause gastric upset at higher doses.
Rationale 2:Colchicine does not have adverse effects of bleeding.
Rationale 3:Skin rashes are not common with colchicine.
Rationale 4: Although the client may need to notify the physician if symptoms do not improve, this is not appropriate teaching in regard to adverse reactions.

Global Rationale: Colchicine may cause gastric upset at higher doses.