A home health nurse is developing a plan of care for an older adult client with severe rheumatoid arthritis who experiences chronic joint pain and morning stiffness. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care to promote basic care and comfort? Select all that apply.
- Advise the client to take a warm shower or apply moist heat packs immediately upon waking.Answer
- BPlace a firm pillow directly under the client's knees while resting in bed to reduce lower back strain.
- Encourage the client to carry bags or objects using the forearms rather than grasping them with the fingers.Answer
- DInstruct the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to evaluate the client's joints for increased warmth and erythema during morning hygiene.
- EReassure the client that sudden, severe episodes of confusion are a normal, expected consequence of aging and chronic pain.
- Recommend the use of a high-backed chair with firm armrests to provide support and facilitate safe standing.Answer
Answer
The correct interventions are advising a warm shower upon waking, using the forearms to carry objects, and utilizing a high-backed chair with firm armrests.
Effective basic care and comfort for a client with rheumatoid arthritis includes measures that reduce pain, preserve joint function, and promote safe mobility. Heat therapy, such as a warm shower, relaxes muscles and relieves morning stiffness. Joint protection principles emphasize using larger, stronger joints (like the forearms) instead of smaller, easily deformed joints (like the fingers) to perform tasks. Additionally, utilizing chairs with high backs and firm armrests provides essential postural support and allows the client to push off safely when standing, minimizing stress on the hips and knees.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Non-pharmacological comfort and joint protection in rheumatoid arthritis
Estimated Time:2m 0s