Author Question: The nurse is providing education for a patient starting therapy on hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil). ... (Read 82 times)

CharlieWard · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

The nurse is providing education for a patient starting therapy on hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil). Before giving the first dose of medication, the nurse should arrange

a. thyroid function tests.
b. a glucose tolerance test.
c. an ophthalmology exam.
d. a bone density test.

Question 2

The nurse is teaching a class on the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis to a group of nurses. The nurse asks the group, Which clinical manifestations would you expect to see with rheumatoid arthritis?

The group correctly names which of the following? (Select all that apply.)
a. Joint injury
b. Fever
c. Weight gain
d. Thickening of the skin
e. Fatigue

cupcake16 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Retinal damage is the most serious toxicity of hydroxychloroquine. Patients should have a thorough ophthalmologic exam prior to treatment and every 6 months thereafter.
Thyroid function tests are not indicated, because hydroxychloroquine does not affect thyroid function.
A glucose tolerance test is unnecessary, because hydroxychloroquine does not affect blood glucose levels.
A bone density test is not needed, because hydroxychloroquine does not affect bone density.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A, B, E
Rheumatoid arthritis is manifested by joint injury (stiffness, swelling, and pain) and systemic manifestations such as fever, weakness, fatigue, weight loss, thinning of the skin, scleritis, corneal ulcers, vasculitis, and nodules under the skin and periosteum.
Patients experience weight loss rather than weight gain.
Patients experience thinning of the skin rather than thickening.