Exam 2: RA, Lupus, HIV/AIDS, Renal, Cancer

Question 1

What is rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer 1

A chronic, progressive, autoimmune disease which causes inflammation of the synovium, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissues within the body leading to joint deformation, bone destruction and organ failure.

Question 2

What are the early signs of RA?

Answer 2

• joint pain, stiffness, and swelling
• gereralized weakness and fatigue
• anorexia and weight loss
• migratory arthritis

Question 3

What are the late signs of RA?

Answer 3

• Joint deformities
  
  • spindle fingers, carpal tunnel
  • TMJ
  • Baker’s cysts
  • Spinal involvement - esp. cervical
  • Tendon ruptures - esp. Achilles
• morning stiffness/ gel phenomenon
• Muscle atrophy
• Soft palpable joints

Question 4

Interventions for pain r/t RA

Answer 4

• adequate sleep/rest
• positioning
• ice/heat
• paraffin wax dips for hands
• hot shower vs baths (difficult to exit)
  
  • safety bars, non-skid treads, shower chairs,
• Alternative therapies
  
  • hypnosis
  • acupuncture
  • imagery
  • music therapy