lupus Flashcards
lupus erythematosus is
autoimmune disorder that causes an atypical immune response that results in chronic inflammation and destruction of healthy tissue.
Inflammation caused by lupus can affect
multiple organ systems such as the joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, heart, and lungs.
lupus is diagnosed by
no test, by s/s and butterfly rash
lupus chaterized
- Lupus varies in severity and progression
- Characterized by flare up and remission
- Classified as discoid or systemic
- Can be temporarily caused by medication
discoid lupus
affects skin
systemic lupus
affects connective tissues of multiple organ systems
Medication-induced lupus
caused by medication. Findings resolve when medication is discontinued
lupus risk factors
Female gender
Age between 15 and 40 years old
African American, Latino, or Asian ethnicity
Exposure to sunlight
lupus CM
- mimic other disorders because they are associated with the normal aging process.
- Joint pain
- Risk for fractures because of corticosteroid
expected findings of lupus: what the pt. can describe
- Fatigue/malaise
- Alopecia
- Blurred vision
- Pleuritic pain
- Anorexia/weight loss
- Depression
- Joint pain/swelling, tenderness
- raynauds
lupus physical assessment findings
- Fever: especially during flare ups
- Anemia
- Lymphadenopathy
- Pericarditis: cardiac friction rub or pleural friction rub)
- Raynaud’s phenomenon
- Findings consistent with organ involvement (end stage) :
Kidney, lungs, vasculature - Erythematous “butterfly” rash over nose and cheeks
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) contributing factors
Long term use of certain medications:
- Chlorpromazine
- Hydralazine
- Isoniazid
- Procainamide (Pronestyl)
- Exposure to mercury
SLE characterized by
- by remissions and exacerbations.
- Erythematosus “butterfly rash” on both cheeks and across the bridge of the nose.
- Rash deepens on exposure to sunlight
sle manifestations
Psychosis
Seizures
Migraines
Abdominal pain
Edema
Nephritis
nursing interventions for lupus
- Monitor vitals signs, especially related to cardiovascular function.
- Monitor urinary function.
- Provide comfort measures.
- Teach patients to use sunscreen, cover skin and head when exposed to sunlight.
- Encourage periods of rest during the day.
- Cleanse skin with mild soap and pat to dry; apply moisturizer.
- Monitor for infection and teach measures to avoid crowds
- s/s of infection