autoimmune disorders

The nurse obtains a history from a 46-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis. It is most important for the nurse to follow up on which patient statement? "I perform range of motion exercises at least twice a day." "I use a heating pad for 20 minutes to reduce morning stiffness." "I take a 20-minute nap in the afternoon even if I sleep 9 hours at night." "I restrict fluids to prevent edema when taking methotrexate (Rheumatrex)."

"I restrict fluids to prevent edema when taking methotrexate (Rheumatrex)." Methotrexate can affect renal function. Patients should be well hydrated to prevent nephropathy. Heat application, range of motion, and rest are appropriate interventions to manage rheumatoid arthritis

3. The nurse assesses clients for the cardinal signs of inflammation. Which signs/symptoms does this include? (Select all that apply.) a. Edema b. Pulselessness c. Pallor d. Redness e. Warmth

ANS: A, D, E The five cardinal signs of inflammation include redness, warmth, pain, swelling, and decreased function

A client with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has an acutely swollen, red, and painful joint. What nonpharmacologic treatment does the nurse apply? a. Heating pad b. Ice packs c. Splints d. Wax dip

ANS: B Ice is best for acute inflammation. Heat often helps with joint stiffness. Splinting helps preserve joint function. A wax dip is used to provide warmth to the joint which is more appropriate for chronic pain and stiffness.

A nurse is caring for a 74 year old female with Fibromyalgia. Which medication would the nurse expect to be ordered by the provider? A. Amitriptyline B. Atropine C. Trazodone D. Nortriptyline

C. Trazodone

The nurse is caring for a client with suspected fibromyalgia. Which diagnostic tool does the nurse anticipate will be used to properly diagnose this patient? A. Blood tests for neurotransmitter levels B. Abnormalities on a thyroid panel C. Failure of a cardiac stress test D. A widespread pain index

D. A widespread pain index

The nurse is providing care for a patient hospitalized with new onset of Guillain-Barré syndrome. During this phase of the patient's illness, which is the most essential assessment for the nurse to carry out? A. Monitoring the cardiac rhythm. B. Determining level of consciousness. C. Checking strength of the extremities. D. Observing respiratory rate and effort.

D. Observing respiratory rate and effort.

The 40-year-old African American woman has had Raynaud's phenomenon for some time. She is now reporting red spots on the hands, forearms, palms, face, and lips. What other manifestations should the nurse assess for when she is assessing for scleroderma (select all that apply)? a. Calcinosis b. Weight loss c. Sclerodactyly d. Difficulty swallowing Weakened leg muscles

a. Calcinoshs b. Sclerodactyly d. Difficulty swallowing This 40-year-old African American woman is at risk for scleroderma. The acronym CREST represents the clinical manifestations. C: calcinosis, painful calcium deposits in the skin; R: Raynaud's phenomenon; E: Esophageal dysfunction, difficulty swallowing; S: sclerodactyly, tightening of skin on fingers and toes; T: telangiectasia. Weight loss and weakened leg muscles are associated with polymyositis and dermatomyositis not scleroderma.

A college student is asking the nurse about his grandfather, who just received a diagnosis of Huntington's disease. The student wants to know if he will have the disease, too. What should the nurse tell the student? Select all that apply. 1. "Huntington's disease affects men more than women." 2. "Huntington's disease is an autosomal dominant disease." 3. "Huntington's disease does not skip a generation." 4. "Huntington's disease is a treatable disease." 5. "There is a 75% chance you will have the disease."

2. "Huntington's disease is an autosomal dominant disease." 3. "Huntington's disease does not skip a generation."

12. A client has a possible connective tissue disease and the nurse is reviewing the clients laboratory values. Which laboratory values and their related connective tissue diseases (CTDs) are correctly matched? (Select all that apply.) a. Elevated antinuclear antibody (ANA) Normal value; no connective tissue disease b. Elevated sedimentation rate Rheumatoid arthritis c. Lowered albumin Indicative only of nutritional deficit d. Positive human leukocyte antigen B27 (HLA-B27) Reiters syndrome or ankylosing spondylitis e. Positive rheumatoid factor Possible kidney disease

ANS D,E The HLA-B27 is diagnostic for Reiters syndrome or ankylosing spondylitis. A positive rheumatoid factor can be seen in autoimmune CTDs, kidney and liver disease, or leukemia. An elevated ANA is indicative of inflammatory CTDs, although a small minority of healthy adults also have this finding. An elevated sedimentation rate indicates inflammation, whether from an infection, an injury, or an autoimmune CTD. Lowered albumin is seen in nutritional deficiencies but also in chronic infection or inflammation.

The nurse is working with a client who has rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The nurse has identified the priority problem of poor body image for the client. What finding by the nurse indicates goals for this client problem are being met? a. Attends meetings of a book club b. Has a positive outlook on life c. Takes medication as directed d. Uses assistive devices to protect joints

ANS: A All of the activities are appropriate for a client with RA. Clients who have a poor body image are often reluctant to appear in public, so attending public book club meetings indicates that goals for this client problem are being met.

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 clients 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.

ANS: A The nurse needs a more thorough understanding of the clients 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.

21. A nurse is caring for a client with systemic sclerosis. The clients facial skin is very taut, limiting the clients ability to open the mouth. After consulting with a registered dietitian for appropriate nutrition, what other consultation should the nurse facilitate? a. Dentist b. Massage therapist c. Occupational therapy d. Physical therapy

ANS: A With limited ability to open the mouth, dental hygiene may be lacking. The nurse should encourage the client to see a dentist. The other referrals are not related to the mouth.

The nurse caring for a client with Guillain-Barr syndrome has identified the priority client problem of decreased mobility for the client. What actions by the nurse are best? (Select all that apply.) a. Ask occupational therapy to help the client with activities of daily living. b. Consult with the provider about a physical therapy consult. c. Provide the client with information on support groups. d. Refer the client to a medical social worker or chaplain. e. Work with speech therapy to design a high-protein diet

ANS: A, B, E Improving mobility and strength involves the collaborative assistance of occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy. While support groups, social work, or chaplain referrals may be needed, they do not help with mobility.

A client has been diagnosed with fibromyalgia syndrome but does not want to take the prescribed medications. What nonpharmacologic measures can the nurse suggest to help manage this condition? (Select all that apply.) a. Acupuncture b. Stretching c. Supplements d. Tai chi e. Vigorous aerobics

ANS: A,B, D There are many nonpharmacologic means for controlling the symptoms of fibromyalgia, including acupuncture, stretching, tai chi, low-impact aerobics, swimming, biking, strengthening, massage, stress management, and hypnosis. Dietary supplements and vigorous aerobics are not recommended.

6. A client with Sjgrens syndrome reports dry skin, eyes, mouth, and vagina. What nonpharmacologic comfort measure does the nurse suggest? a. Frequent eyedrops b. Home humidifier c. Strong moisturizer d. Tear duct plugs

ANS: B A humidifier will help relieve many of the clients Sjgrens syndrome symptoms. Eyedrops and tear duct plugs only affect the eyes, and moisturizer will only help the skin.

11. A nurse works in the rheumatology clinic and sees clients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Which client should the nurse see first? a. Client who reports jaw pain when eating b. Client with a red, hot, swollen right wrist c. Client who has a puffy-looking area behind the knee d. Client with a worse joint deformity since the last visit

ANS: B All of the options are possible manifestations of RA. However, the presence of one joint that is much redder, hotter, or more swollen that the other joints may indicate infection. The nurse needs to see this client first.

A nurse is teaching a client with multiple sclerosis who is prescribed cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan) and methylprednisolone (Medrol). Which statement should the nurse include in this clients discharge teaching? a. Take warm baths to promote muscle relaxation. b. Avoid crowds and people with colds. c. Relying on a walker will weaken your gait. d. Take prescribed medications when symptoms occur.

ANS: B The client should be taught to avoid people with any type of upper respiratory illness because these medications are immunosuppressive. Warm baths will exacerbate the clients symptoms. Assistive devices may be required for safe ambulation. Medication should be taken at all times and should not be stopped

1. The nursing student studying rheumatoid arthritis (RA) learns which facts about the disease? (Select all that apply.) a. It affects single joints only. b. Antibodies lead to inflammation. c. It consists of an autoimmune process. d. Morning stiffness is rare. e. Permanent damage is inevitable.

ANS: B, C RA is a chronic autoimmune systemic inflammatory disorder leading to arthritis-type symptoms in the joints and other symptoms that can be seen outside the joints. Antibodies are created that lead to inflammation. Clients often report morning stiffness. Permanent damage can be avoided with aggressive, early treatment.

A client with myasthenia gravis is malnourished. What actions to improve nutrition may the nurse delegate to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)? (Select all that apply.) a. Assessing the clients gag reflex b. Cutting foods up into small bites c. Monitoring prealbumin levels d. Thickening liquids prior to drinking e. Weighing the client daily

ANS: B, D Cutting food up into smaller bites makes it easier for the client to chew and swallow. Thickened liquids help prevent aspiration. The UAP can weigh the client, but this does not help improve nutrition. The nurse assesses the gag reflex and monitors laboratory values.

18. A nurse cares for several clients on a neurologic unit. Which prescription for a client should direct the nurse to ensure that an informed consent has been obtained before the test or procedure? a. Sensation measurement via the pinprick method b. Computed tomography of the cranial vault c. Lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid sampling d. Venipuncture for autoantibody analysis

ANS: C A lumbar puncture is an invasive procedure with many potentially serious complications. The other assessments or tests are considered noninvasive and do not require an informed consent.

The student nurse learns that the most important function of inflammation and immunity is which purpose? a. Destroying bacteria before damage occurs b. Preventing any entry of foreign material c. Providing protection against invading organisms d. Regulating the process of self-tolerance

ANS: C The purpose of inflammation and immunity is to provide protection to the body against invading organisms, whether they are bacterial, viral, protozoal, or fungal. These systems eliminate, destroy, or neutralize the offending agents. The cells of the immune system are the only cells that can distinguish self from non-self. This function is generalized and incorporates destroying bacteria, preventing entry of foreign invaders, and regulating self-tolerance.

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.

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.

9. A client has rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the visiting nurse is conducting a home assessment. What options can the nurse suggest for the client to maintain independence in activities of daily living (ADLs)? (Select all that apply.) a. Grab bars to reach high items b. Long-handled bath scrub brush c. Soft rocker-recliner chair d. Toothbrush with built-up handle e. Wheelchair cushion for comfort

ANS:A, B, D Grab bars, long-handled bath brushes, and toothbrushes with built-up handles all provide modifications for daily activities, making it easier for the client with RA to complete ADLs independently. The rocker-recliner and wheelchair cushion are comfort measures but do not help increase independence.

The nurse is providing discharge teaching for a patient with multiple sclerosis. Which statement by the patient indicates to the nurse further teaching is needed? A. "I will use a straw to drink liquids." B. "I plan to use an incontinence pad when I go out." C. "I will limit the amount I exercise to decrease muscle spasticity." D. "I may be having a rough time now, but I hope tomorrow will be better.

C. "I will limit the amount I exercise to decrease muscle spasticity."

A home health nurse is visiting a patient with myasthenia gravis and is discussing methods to minimize the risk of aspiration during meals because of decreased muscle strength. Which suggestion should the nurse give to the patient? A. Swallow when the chin is tilted upward. B. Eat within 15 minutes of taking medication. C. Discuss eating foods that are easily chewed and swallowed. D. Lay in bed with the head of the bed elevated no greater than 30 degrees.

C. Discuss eating foods that are easily chewed and swallowed.

Which of the following diseases is a chronic, progressive, hereditary disease of the nervous system that results in progressive involuntary dance-like movement and dementia? A. Parkinson's disease B. Creutzfeldt-Jakob's disease C. Huntington's disease D. Multiple sclerosis

C. Huntington's disease

The nurse is assessing a patient admitted to the acute care facility due to myasthenia gravis. Which assessment is most important for the nurse to make regarding this patient? A. Pupil size. B. Grip strength. C. Respiratory effort. D. Level of consciousness.

C. Respiratory effort.

You're about to send a patient for a lumbar puncture to help rule out Guillain Barre Syndrome. Before sending the patient, you will have the patient: A. Clean back with antiseptic B. Drink contrast dye C. Void D. Wash their hair

C. Void

During routine assessment of a patient with Guillain-Barré syndrome, you find the patient is short of breath. What is causing the patient's respiratory distress? A. Elevated protein levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) B. Immobility resulting from ascending paralysis C. Degeneration of motor neurons in the brainstem and spinal cord D. Paralysis ascending to the nerves that stimulate the thoracic area

D. Paralysis ascending to the nerves that stimulate the thoracic area Guillain-Barré syndrome is characterized by ascending, symmetric paralysis that usually affects cranial nerves and the peripheral nervous system. The most serious complication of this syndrome is respiratory failure, which occurs as the paralysis progresses to the nerves that innervate the thoracic area.

A female patient's complex symptomatology over the past year has led to a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Which statement demonstrates the patient's need for further teaching about the disease? a. "I'll try my best to stay out of the sun this summer." b. "I know that I probably have a high chance of getting arthritis." c. "I'm hoping that surgery will be an option for me in the future." d. "I understand that I'm going to be vulnerable to getting infections."

c. "I'm hoping that surgery will be an option for me in the future." Surgery is not a key treatment modality for SLE, so this indicates a need for further teaching. SLE carries an increased risk of infection, sun damage, and arthritis.

A nurse is caring for a patient with Guillain Barre. What assessment findings require intervention? Select all that apply. A. Blood pressure of 80/42 B. Respiratory Rate of 24 C. Shallow breathing D. SpO2 of 85% E. Diminished breath sounds in all fields

A, C, D, E

Which statement by the patient supports the diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome? A. "I had a GI infection a few weeks ago." B. "I just returned from a short trip to Japan." C. "I think one of the people I work with had this." D. "I have been taking some herbs for more than a year."

A. "I had a GI infection a few weeks ago."

A client with rheumatoid arthritis states" I cannot do m household chores without becoming tired. My knees hurt whenever I walk". Which goal for this client should be priority? A. Conserve energy B. Adapt Self Care Skills C. Develop coping skills D. Employ a housekeeping service

A. Conserve energy

The nurse is admitting a patient diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. For which clinical manifestations would the nurse assess? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY. A. Fatigue. B. Lethargy. C. Dysphagia. D. Blurred vision. E. Muscle weakness.

A. Fatigue. C. Dysphagia. D. Blurred vision. E. Muscle weakness.

When developing a plan of care for a patient with Huntington's disease, the nurse should emphasize which dietary regimen? A. High in calories and soft. B. High in protein and fiber. C. Low in calories and fat content. D. High protein and low carbohydrate

A. High in calories and soft.

The nurse is teaching a client about taking a new prescription for pyridostigmine (an anticholinesterase). which statements by the nurse indicates correct information about this drug? SATA a. Avoid opioids and other sedating drugs when taking this medication b. Report increased mucous secretions and sweating immediately to the primary health care provider c. take the prescribed medication after meals to increase intestinal absorption d. avoid taking antibiotics, especially neomycin while on this medication e. maintain the exact same dose of this medication every day

ABD should be taken 30-1hr before meals, and dose is adjusted often depending on symptoms

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. Lets 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.

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.

A client who has had systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) for many years is in the clinic reporting hip pain with ambulation. Which action by the nurse is best? a. Assess medication records for steroid use. b. Facilitate a consultation with physical therapy. c. Measure the range of motion in both hips. d. Notify the health care provider immediately.

ANS: A Chronic steroid use is seen in clients with SLE and can lead to osteonecrosis (bone necrosis). The nurse should determine if the client has been taking a steroid. Physical therapy may be beneficial, but there is not enough information about the client yet. Measuring range of motion is best done by the physical therapist. Notifying the provider immediately is not warranted.

A client is taking long-term corticosteroids for myasthenia gravis. What teaching is most important? a. Avoid large crowds and people who are ill. b. Check blood sugars four times a day. c. Use two forms of contraception. d. Wear properly fitting socks and shoes.

ANS: A Corticosteroids reduce immune function, so clients taking these medications must avoid being exposed to illness. Long-term use can lead to secondary diabetes, but the client would not need to start checking blood glucose unless diabetes had been detected. Corticosteroids do not affect the effectiveness of contraception. Wearing well-fitting shoes would be important to avoid injury, but not just because the client takes corticosteroids.

15. A client is started on etanercept (Enbrel). What teaching by the nurse is most appropriate? a. Giving subcutaneous injections b. Having a chest x-ray once a year c. Taking the medication with food d. Using heat on the injection site

ANS: A Etanercept is given as a subcutaneous injection twice a week. The nurse should teach the client how to selfadminister the medication. The other options are not appropriate for etanercept

An older client is hospitalized with Guillain-Barr syndrome. A family member tells the nurse the client is restless and seems confused. What action by the nurse is best? a. Assess the clients oxygen saturation. b. Check the medication list for interactions. c. Place the client on a bed alarm. d. Put the client on safety precautions.

ANS: A In the older adult, an early sign of hypoxia is often confusion and restlessness. The nurse should first assess the clients oxygen saturation. The other actions are appropriate, but only after this assessment occurs.

The nurse on an inpatient rheumatology unit receives a hand-off report on a client with an acute exacerbation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Which reported laboratory value requires the nurse to assess the client further? a. Creatinine: 3.9 mg/dL b. Platelet count: 210,000/mm3 c. Red blood cell count: 5.2/mm3 d. White blood cell count: 4400/mm3

ANS: A Lupus nephritis is the leading cause of death in clients with SLE. The creatinine level is very high and the nurse needs to perform further assessments related to this finding. The other laboratory values are normal.

A client with myasthenia gravis (MG) asks the nurse to explain the disease. What response by the nurse is best? a. MG is an autoimmune problem in which nerves do not cause muscles to contract. b. MG is an inherited destruction of peripheral nerve endings and junctions. c. MG consists of trauma-induced paralysis of specific cranial nerves. d. MG is a viral infection of the dorsal root of sensory nerve fibers.

ANS: A MG is an autoimmune disorder in which nerve fibers are damaged and their impulses do not lead to muscle contraction. MG is not an inherited or viral disorder and does not paralyze specific cranial nerves.

A client in the orthopedic clinic has a self-reported history of osteoarthritis. The client reports a low-grade fever that started when the weather changed and several joints started acting up, especially both hips and knees. What action by the nurse is best? a. Assess the client for the presence of subcutaneous nodules or Bakers cysts. b. Inspect the clients feet and hands for podagra and tophi on fingers and toes. c. Prepare to teach the client about an acetaminophen (Tylenol) regimen. d. Reassure the client that the problems will fade as the weather changes again

ANS: A Osteoarthritis is not a systemic disease, nor does it present bilaterally. These are manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis. The nurse should assess for other manifestations of this disorder, including subcutaneous nodules and Bakers cysts. Podagra and tophi are seen in gout. Acetaminophen is not used for rheumatoid arthritis. Telling the client that the symptoms will fade with weather changes is not accurate.

A client with fibromyalgia is in the hospital for an unrelated issue. The client reports that sleep, which is always difficult, is even harder now. What actions by the nurse are most appropriate? (Select all that apply.) a. Allow the client uninterrupted rest time. b. Assess the clients usual bedtime routine. c. Limit environmental noise as much as possible. d. Offer a massage or warm shower at night. e. Request an order for a strong sleeping pill.

ANS: A, B, C, D Clients with fibromyalgia often have sleep disturbances, which can be exacerbated by the stress, noise, and unfamiliar environment of the hospital. Allowing uninterrupted rest time, adhering to the clients usual bedtime routine as much as possible, limiting noise and light, and offering massages or warm showers can help. The client does not need a strong sleeping pill unless all other options fail and the client requests something for sleep. At that point a mild sleeping agent can be tried.

A client with myasthenia gravis is prescribed pyridostigmine (Mestinon). What teaching should the nurse plan regarding this medication? (Select all that apply.) a. Do not eat a full meal for 45 minutes after taking the drug. b. Seek immediate care if you develop trouble swallowing. c. Take this drug on an empty stomach for best absorption. d. The dose may change frequently depending on symptoms. e. Your urine may turn a reddish-orange color while on this drug.

ANS: A, B, D Pyridostigmine should be given with a small amount of food to prevent GI upset, but the client should wait to eat a full meal due to the potential for aspiration. If difficulty with swallowing occurs, the client should seek immediate attention. The dose can change on a day-to-day basis depending on the clients manifestations. Taking the drug on an empty stomach is not related although the client needs to eat within 45 to 60 minutes afterwards. The clients urine will not turn reddish-orange while on this drug.

2. A student nurse is learning about the types of different cells involved in the inflammatory response. Which principles does the student learn? (Select all that apply.) a. Basophils are only involved in the general inflammatory process. b. Eosinophils increase during allergic reactions and parasitic invasion. c. Macrophages can participate in many episodes of phagocytosis. d. Monocytes turn into macrophages after they enter body tissues. e. Neutrophils can only take part in one episode of phagocytosis.

ANS: B, C, D, E Eosinophils do increase during allergic and parasitic invasion. Macrophages participate in many episodes of phagocytosis. Monocytes turn into macrophages after they enter body tissues. Neutrophils only take part in one episode of phagocytosis. Basophils are involved in both the general inflammatory response and allergic or hypersensitivity responses.

An older adult client is hospitalized with Guillain-Barr syndrome. The client is given amitriptyline (Elavil). After receiving the hand-off report, what actions by the nurse are most important? (Select all that apply.) a. Administering the medication as ordered b. Advising the client to have help getting up c. Consulting the provider about the drug d. Cutting the dose of the drug in half e. Placing the client on safety precautions

ANS: B, C, E Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant and is considered inappropriate for use in older clients due to concerns of anticholinergic effects, confusion, and safety risks. The nurse should tell the client to have help getting up, place the client on safety precautions, and consult the provider. Since this drug is not appropriate for older clients, cutting the dose in half is not warranted.

4. The nurse working in the rheumatology clinic assesses clients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for late manifestations. Which signs/symptoms are considered late manifestations of RA? (Select all that apply.) a. Anorexia b. Feltys syndrome c. Joint deformity d. Low-grade fever e. Weight loss

ANS: B, C, E Late manifestations of RA include Feltys syndrome, joint deformity, weight loss, organ involvement, osteoporosis, extreme fatigue, and anemia, among others. Anorexia and low-grade fever are both seen early in the course of the disease

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.

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.

A nurse assesses a client with early-onset multiple sclerosis (MS). Which clinical manifestation should the nurse expect to find? a. Hyperresponsive reflexes b. Excessive somnolence c. Nystagmus d. Heat intolerance

ANS: C Early signs and symptoms of MS include changes in motor skills, vision, and sensation. Hyperresponsive reflexes, excessive somnolence, and heat intolerance are later manifestations of MS.

A client with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is on the postoperative nursing unit after having elective surgery. The client reports that one arm feels like pins and needles and that the neck is very painful since returning from surgery. What action by the nurse is best? a. Assist the client to change positions. b. Document the findings in the clients chart. c. Encourage range of motion of the neck. d. Notify the provider immediately.

ANS: D Clients with RA can have cervical joint involvement. This can lead to an emergent situation in which the phrenic nerve is compressed, causing respiratory insufficiency. The client can also suffer a permanent spinal cord injury. The nurse needs to notify the provider immediately. Changing positions and doing range of motion may actually worsen the situation. The nurse should document findings after notifying the provider.

The nurse learns that the pathophysiology of Guillain-Barr syndrome includes segmental demyelination. The nurse should understand that this causes what? a. Delayed afferent nerve impulses b. Paralysis of affected muscles c. Paresthesia in upper extremities d. Slowed nerve impulse transmission

ANS: D Demyelination leads to slowed nerve impulse transmission. The other options are not correct.

10. A nurse teaches a client with a lower motor neuron lesion who wants to achieve bladder control. Which statement should the nurse include in this clients teaching? a. Stroke the inner aspect of your thigh to initiate voiding. b. Use a clean technique for intermittent catheterization. c. Implement digital anal stimulation when your bladder is full. d. Tighten your abdominal muscles to stimulate urine flow.

ANS: D In clients with lower motor neuron problems such as spinal cord injury, performing a Valsalva maneuver or tightening the abdominal muscles are interventions that can initiate voiding. Stroking the inner aspect of the thigh may initiate voiding in a client who has an upper motor neuron problem. Intermittent catheterization and digital anal stimulation do not initiate voiding or bladder control

A nurse cares for a client who presents with an acute exacerbation of multiple sclerosis (MS). Which prescribed medication should the nurse prepare to administer? a. Baclofen (Lioresal) b. Interferon beta-1b (Betaseron) c. Dantrolene sodium (Dantrium) d. Methylprednisolone (Medrol)

ANS: D Methylprednisolone is the drug of choice for acute exacerbations of the disease. The other drugs are not used to treat acute exacerbations of MS. Interferon beta-1b is used to treat and control MS, decrease specific symptoms, and slow the progression of the disease. Baclofen and dantrolene sodium are prescribed to lessen muscle spasticity associated with MS.

13. The nurse working in the rheumatology clinic is seeing clients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). What assessment would be most important for the client whose chart contains the diagnosis of Sjgrens syndrome? a. Abdominal assessment b. Oxygen saturation c. Renal function studies d. Visual acuity

ANS: D Sjgrens syndrome is seen in clients with RA and manifests with dryness of the eyes, mouth, and vagina in females. Visual disturbances can occur. The other assessments are not related to RA and Sjgrens syndrome.

A patient with polyarthralgia with joint swelling and pain is being evaluated for SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus). The nurse knows that the serum test result that is most specific for SLE is: A. Rheumatoid factor B. Anti-smith antibody C. Decreased WBC's D. Increased glucose

B. Anti-smith antibody

Which is a classic presentation of Guillain-Barré syndrome? A. Acute change in level of consciousness B. Ascending, symmetric paralysis C. Acute onset of paralysis in lower extremities D. Paresthesias in legs starting with feet and radiating to groin area

B. Ascending, symmetric paralysis Guillain-Barré syndrome is an acute, rapidly progressing polyneuritis with ascending, symmetric paralysis. The other options are not related to Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Which of the following terms (Huntington's) is used to describe rapid, jerky, involuntary, purposeless movements of the extremities? A. Spondylosis B. Chorea C. Bradykinesia D. Dyskinesia

B. Chorea

The patient is diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome and admitted to the inpatient unit from the emergency department. What is the most important nursing observation? A. Urine output B. Depth of respiration C. Bowel sounds D. Lower extremity strength

B. Depth of respiration The most serious complication is paralysis progressing to the nerves that innervate the thoracic area and causing respiratory failure. You must constantly monitor the respiratory system by checking respiratory rate and depth, forced vital capacity, and negative inspiratory force. The other options may be affected, but respiratory function is most important.

A nurse is caring for a client who has SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus) and is experiencing an episode of Raynaud's Phenomenon. Which of the following findings should the nurse anticipate? A. Swelling of the joints and fingers B. Pallor of the toes and fingers with cold exposures C. Feet that become reddened with ambulation D. Client report of intense feeling of heat in the fingers

B. Pallor of the toes and fingers with cold exposures

The nurse is caring for a patient recently diagnosed with Huntington's disease. The patient was told there was a 50 % chance of developing the disease. This is because Huntington's disease is transmitted by: A. an autosomal recessive gene. B. an autosomal dominant gene. C. an X-linked recessive gene. D. An X-linked dominant gene

B. an autosomal dominant gene.

What is the primary goal of nursing care for the patient with Guillain-Barré syndrome? A. Assist the patient to adapt to their lifelong paralysis. B. Teach the patient to use a communication board. C. Support body systems until the patient recovers. D. Place the patient in contact isolation to prevent spread of the condition

C. Support body systems until the patient recovers. The objective of therapy is to support body systems until the patient recovers. Respiratory failure and infection are serious threats. Most patients recover eventually. Depending on the progression of the disease, the patient may be incapable of communicating.

A patient with myasthenia gravis continues to become weaker despite treatment with neostigmine (Prostigmin). The nurse understands edrophonium HCl (Tensilon) is ordered for which of the following purposes? A. Rule out cholinergic crisis. B. Promote synergistic effect. C. Overcome Prostigmin resistance. D. Confirm the diagnosis of myasthenia gravis.

A. Rule out cholinergic crisis.

A client is taking prednisone to prevent transplant rejection. What instruction by the nurse is most important? a. Avoid large crowds and people who are ill. b. Check over-the-counter meds for acetaminophen. c. Take this medicine exactly as prescribed. d. You have a higher risk of developing cancer.

ANS: A Prednisone, like all steroids, decreases immune function. The client should be advised to avoid large crowds and people who are ill. Prednisone does not contain acetaminophen. All clients should be taught to take medications exactly as prescribed. A higher risk for cancer is seen with drugs from the calcineurin inhibitor category, such as tacrolimus (Prograf).

A client recently diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is in the clinic for a follow-up visit. The nurse evaluates that the client practices good self-care when the client makes which statement? a. I always wear long sleeves, pants, and a hat when outdoors. b. I try not to use cosmetics that contain any type of sunblock. c. Since I tend to sweat a lot, I use a lot of baby powder. d. Since I cant be exposed to the sun, I have been using a tanning bed.

ANS: A Good self-management of the skin in SLE includes protecting the skin from sun exposure, using sunblock, avoiding drying agents such as powder, and avoiding tanning beds.

A client receiving muromonab-CD3 (Orthoclone OKT3) asks the nurse how the drug works. What response by the nurse is best? a. It increases the elimination of T lymphocytes from circulation. b. It inhibits cytokine production in most lymphocytes. c. It prevents DNA synthesis, stopping cell division in activated lymphocytes. d. It prevents the activation of the lymphocytes responsible for rejection

ANS: A Muromonab-CD3 (Orthoclone OKT3) is a monoclonal antibody that works to increase the elimination of T lymphocytes from circulation. The corticosteroids broadly inhibit cytokine production in most leukocytes, resulting in generalized immunosuppression. The main action of all antiproliferatives (such as azathioprine [Imuran]) is to inhibit something essential to DNA synthesis, which prevents cell division in activated lymphocytes. Calcineurin inhibitors such as cyclosporine (Sandimmune) stop the production and secretion of interleukin-2, which then prevents the activation of lymphocytes involved in transplant rejection.

20. A client with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was recently discharged from the hospital after an acute exacerbation. The client is in the clinic for a follow-up visit and is distraught about the possibility of another hospitalization disrupting the family. What action by the nurse is best? a. Explain to the client that SLE is an unpredictable disease. b. Help the client create backup plans to minimize disruption. c. Offer to talk to the family and educate them about SLE. d. Tell the client to remain compliant with treatment plans.

ANS: B SLE is an unpredictable disease and acute exacerbations can occur without warning, creating chaos in the family. Helping the client make backup plans for this event not only will decrease the disruption but will give the client a sense of having more control. Explaining facts about the disease is helpful as well but does not engage the client in problem solving. The family may need education, but again this does not help the client to problem-solve. Remaining compliant may help decrease exacerbations, but is not as powerful an intervention as helping the client plan for such events.

3. A client with Guillain-Barr syndrome is admitted to the hospital. The nurse plans caregiving priority to interventions that address which priority client problem? a. Anxiety b. Low fluid volume c. Inadequate airway d. Potential for skin breakdown

ANS: C Airway takes priority. Anxiety is probably present, but a physical diagnosis takes priority over a psychosocial one. The client has no reason to have low fluid volume unless he or she has been unable to drink for some time. If present, airway problems take priority over a circulation problem. An actual problem takes precedence over a risk for a problem.

4. The nurse is preparing a client for a Tensilon (edrophonium chloride) test. What action by the nurse is most important? a. Administering anxiolytics b. Having a ventilator nearby c. Obtaining atropine sulfate d. Sedating the client

ANS: C Atropine is the antidote to edrophonium chloride and should be readily available when a client is having a Tensilon test. The nurse would not want to give medications that might cause increased weakness or sedation. A ventilator is not necessary to have nearby, although emergency equipment should be available.

1. A client is admitted with Guillain-Barr syndrome (GBS). What assessment takes priority? a. Bladder control b. Cognitive perception c. Respiratory system d. Sensory functions

ANS: C Clients with GBS have muscle weakness, possibly to the point of paralysis. If respiratory muscles are paralyzed, the client may need mechanical ventilation, so the respiratory system is the priority. The nurse will complete urinary, cognitive, and sensory assessments as part of a thorough evaluation.

8. The nurse is caring for a client with systemic sclerosis (SSc). What comfort measures can the nurse delegate to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)? (Select all that apply.) a. Collaborate with a registered dietitian for appropriate foods. b. Inspect the skin and note any areas of ulceration. c. Keep the room at a comfortably warm temperature. d. Place a foot cradle at the end of the bed to lift sheets. e. Remind the client to elevate the head of the bed after eating.

ANS: C, D, E The client with SSc should avoid cold temperatures, which may lead to vasospasms and Raynauds phenomenon. The UAP can adjust the room temperature for the clients comfort. Keeping the sheets off the feet will help prevent injury; the UAP can apply a foot cradle to the bed to hold the sheets up. Because of esophageal problems, the client should remain in an upright position for 1 to 2 hours after meals. The UAP can remind the client of this once he or she has been taught. The other actions are performed by the registered nurse.

The nurse in the rheumatology clinic is assessing clients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Which client should the nurse see first? a. Client taking celecoxib (Celebrex) and ranitidine (Zantac) b. Client taking etanercept (Enbrel) with a red injection site c. Client with a blood glucose of 190 mg/dL who is taking steroids d. Client with a fever and cough who is taking tofacitinib (Xeljanz)

ANS: D Tofacitinib carries a Food and Drug Administration black box warning about opportunistic infections, tuberculosis, and cancer. Fever and cough may indicate tuberculosis. Ranitidine is often taken with celecoxib, which can cause gastrointestinal distress. Redness and itchy rashes are frequently seen with etanercept injections. Steroids are known to raise blood glucose levels.

A client with myasthenia gravis has the priority client problem of inadequate nutrition. What assessment finding indicates that the priority goal for this client problem has been met? a. Ability to chew and swallow without aspiration b. Eating 75% of meals and between-meal snacks c. Intake greater than output 3 days in a row d. Weight gain of 3 pounds in 1 month

ANS: D Weight gain is the best indicator that the client is receiving enough nutrition. Being able to chew and swallow is important for eating, but adequate nutrition can be accomplished through enteral means if needed. Swallowing without difficulty indicates an intact airway. Since the question does not indicate what the clients meals and snacks consist of, eating 75% may or may not be adequate. Intake and output refers to fluid balance.

1. For a person to be immunocompetent, which processes need to be functional and interact appropriately with each other? (Select all that apply.) a. Antibody-mediated immunity b. Cell-mediated immunity c. Inflammation d. Red blood cells e. White blood cells

ANS:A, B, C The three processes that need to be functional and interact with each other for a person to be immunocompetent are antibody-mediated immunity, cell-mediated immunity, and inflammation. Red and white blood cells are not processes.

5. The student nurse is learning about the functions of different antibodies. Which principles does the student learn? (Select all that apply.) a. IgA is found in high concentrations in secretions from mucous membranes. b. IgD is present in the highest concentrations in mucous membranes. c. IgE is associated with antibody-mediated hypersensitivity reactions. d. IgG comprises the majority of the circulating antibody population. e. IgM is the first antibody formed by a newly sensitized B cell.

ANS:A, C, D, E Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is found in high concentrations in secretions from mucous membranes. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is associated with antibody-mediated hypersensitivity reactions. The majority of the circulating antibody population consists of immunoglobulin G (IgG). The first antibody formed by a newly sensitized B cell is immunoglobulin M (IgM). Immunoglobulin D (IgD) is typically present in low concentrations.

2. A nurse is teaching a female client with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) about taking methotrexate (MTX) (Rheumatrex) for disease control. What information does the nurse include? (Select all that apply.) a. Avoid acetaminophen in over-the-counter medications. b. It may take several weeks to become effective on pain. c. Pregnancy and breast-feeding are not affected by MTX. d. Stay away from large crowds and people who are ill. e. You may find that folic acid, a B vitamin, reduces side effects.

ANS:A,B,D,E MTX is a disease-modifying antirheumatic drug and is used as a first-line drug for RA. MTX can cause liver toxicity, so the client should be advised to avoid medications that contain acetaminophen. It may take 4 to 6 weeks for effectiveness. MTX can cause immunosuppression, so avoiding sick people and crowds is important. Folic acid helps reduce side effects for some people. Pregnancy and breast-feeding are contraindicated while on this drug.

You are teaching your patient diagnosed with myasthenia gravis about treatments. Which of the following statements, if made by the patient indicates the need for further teaching? A) Plasmapheresis is way to reduce symptoms but will need to be done every day B) A thymectomy is a removal of my thymus gland and will show some immediate relieving of my symptoms C) Corticosteroids can be used for short periods of time to help improve my symptoms, but it isn't good for long periods of time D) I need to take my Mestinon four times a day at the same time each day.

Answer: B. A thymectomy may help reduce symptoms, but the effects may not be seen for many months after surgery. Plasmapheresis is the removal of antibodies from blood plasma. It must be done daily for a period of time. Corticosteroids are mostly used for short periods of time unless the patient is experiencing ocular complications. Pyridostigmine bromide (Mestinon) is divided into several doses and should be taken at the same time daily.

A patient presents with possible rheumatoid arthritis, stiffness, and pain in the joints. What questions could the nurse ask to assess for other possible signs and symptoms of RA? Select all that apply. A. "Does the pain and stiffness tend to be worse before bed"? B. "Are you experiencing fatigue and mild fever as well"? C. "Is your pain and stiffness symmetrical to the body"? D. "Is your pain and stiffness aggravated by extreme temperature changes"?

BCD

What is the most common cause of Guillain-Barré syndrome? A. Parasite infestation causing demyelinization. B. Brain neuron damage from plaques. C. Systemic sepsis from a bacterial infection. D. Viral infection or immunization.

D. Viral infection or immunization. The syndrome is often preceded by immune system stimulation by a viral infection, trauma, surgery, viral immunization, or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The other options are not related to Guillain-Barré syndrome.

A 24-year-old female patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) tells the nurse she wants to have a baby and is considering getting pregnant. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate? a. "Infertility can result from the medications used to control your disease." b. "Pregnancy will result in a temporary remission of your signs and symptoms." c. "Autoantibodies transferred to the baby during pregnancy will cause heart defects." d. "The baby is at high risk for neonatal lupus erythematosus being diagnosed at birth."

a. "Infertility can result from the medications used to control your disease." Infertility may be caused by renal involvement and the previous use of high-dose corticosteroid and chemotherapy drugs. Neonatal lupus erythematosus rarely occurs in infants born to women with SLE. Exacerbation is common following pregnancy during the postpartum period. Spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, and intrauterine growth retardation are common problems with pregnancy related to deposits of immune complexes in the placenta and because of inflammatory responses in the placental blood vessels. There is not an increased risk for heart defects.

The patient with fibromyalgia is suffering with pain at 12 of the 18 identification sites, including the neck and upper back and the knees. The patient also reports nonrefreshing sleep, depression, and being anxious when dealing with multiple tasks. The nurse should teach this patient about what treatments (select all that apply)? a. Low-impact aerobic exercise b. Relaxation strategy (biofeedback) c. Antiseizure drug pregabalin (Lyrica) d. Morphine sulfate extended-release tablets e. Serotonin reuptake inhibitor (e.g., sertraline [Zoloft])

a. Low-impact aerobic exercise b. Relaxation strategy (biofeedback) c. Antiseizure drug pregabalin (Lyrica) e. Serotonin reuptake inhibitor (e.g., sertraline [Zoloft]) Because the treatment of fibromyalgia is symptomatic, this patient will be prescribed something for pain, such as pregabalin, and a serotonin reuptake inhibitor for depression. Low- impact aerobic exercise will prevent muscle atrophy without increasing pain at the knees. Relaxation can help decrease the patient's stress and anxiety. Long-acting opioids are generally avoided unless pain cannot be relieved by other

A nurse assesses a 38-year-old patient with joint pain and stiffness who was diagnosed with Stage III rheumatoid arthritis (RA). What characteristics should the nurse expect to observe (select all that apply)? a. Nodules present b. Consistent muscle strength c. Localized disease symptoms d. No destructive changes on x-ray e. Subluxation of joints without fibrous ankylosis

a. Nodules present e. Subluxation of joints without fibrous ankylosis In Stage III severe RA, there may be extraarticular soft tissue lesions or nodules present, and there is subluxation without fibrous or bony ankylosis. The muscle strength is decreased because there is extensive muscle atrophy. The manifestations are systemic not localized. There is x-ray evidence of cartilage and bone destruction in addition to osteoporosis.

A 62-year-old woman diagnosed with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) reports difficulty sleeping at night. Which suggestion should the nurse give to the patient? a. "Drinking a glass of red wine 30 minutes before bedtime will reduce anxiety and help you fall asleep." b. "Evening primrose oil is an herbal supplement that can be used as a sleep aid and to relieve anxiety." c. "Melatonin is a hormone that is often used in supplements to improve sleep and ease fibromyalgia pain." d. "Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is a nonprescription sleep aid that is effective and does not cause tolerance."

c. "Melatonin is a hormone that is often used in supplements to improve sleep and ease fibromyalgia pain." Melatonin is a hormone prepared as a supplement. Scientific evidence suggests that melatonin decreases sleep latency and may increase the duration of sleep. In addition, melatonin may decrease fatigue and pain in individuals with fibromyalgia. Alcohol should not be consumed 4 to 6 hours before bedtime. Evening primrose oil is an herbal product used for breast pain (oral form) and skin disorders (topical form). Long-term use of diphenhydramine for sleep causes tolerance.

Which patient statement most clearly suggests a need to assess the patient for ankylosing spondylitis (AS)? a. "My right elbow has become red and swollen over the last few days." b. "I wake up stiff every morning, and my knees just don't want to bend." c. "My husband tells me that my posture has become so stooped this winter." d. "My lower back pain seems to be getting worse all the time, and nothing seems to help."

d. "My lower back pain seems to be getting worse all the time, and nothing seems to help." AS primarily affects the axial skeleton. Based on this, symptoms of inflammatory spine pain are often the first clues to a diagnosis of AS. Knee or elbow involvement is not consistent with the typical course of AS. Back pain is likely to precede the development of kyphosis.