Lupus Flashcards
What is the definition of immunity?
Protection from illness or disease maintained by the body’s physiologic defense mechanisms, provided by antibodies and other special secretions or cells.
What is inflammation?
A syndrome of normal tissue responses to cellular injury, allergy, or the invasion of pathogens, serving as an important protective mechanism.
What is Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)?
An autoimmune disorder characterized by genetic-environmental interactions where circulating antibodies attack self.
What are common triggers for SLE?
- Infection
- Injury
- Drugs
- Hormones
- Exposure to environmental substances, especially UV light
What are the most important lab values when trying to diagnose SLE?
Priority physical assessments including vitals, skin examination, kidney function, and heart assessment.
What is a key psychosocial assessment for SLE patients?
Patient and family assessment.
What are common clinical manifestations of SLE?
- Persistent pain
- Fatigue
- Potential for loss of tissue integrity
- Potential for decreased self-esteem
What are the nursing priorities for managing persistent pain in SLE?
- Acetaminophen & NSAIDs
- Corticosteroids
- Moist heat
What is the expected outcome for managing persistent pain in SLE?
Pain reduction to an acceptable level.
How should fatigue be managed in SLE patients?
- Prioritizing activities
- Delegating tasks
- Balancing exercise/rest
What is the rationale behind managing fatigue in SLE?
Management focuses on recognizing health must come first and making lifestyle choices to improve endurance/decrease fatigue.
What interventions are aimed at preventing organ failure in SLE?
- Drug therapy
- Lifestyle choices
What is the rationale for preventing organ failure in SLE?
To prevent or delay major organ damage.
What interventions enhance self-esteem in SLE patients?
- Supporting positive coping mechanisms
- Listening
- Encouraging active participation in care
- Skin care
What are the most important medications for SLE?
- Prednisone
- Hydroxychloroquine
- Chloroquine
- Cyclophosphamide
- Methotrexate
- Azathioprine
What is the pharmacologic class of Prednisone?
Corticosteroid.
What is the mechanism of action for Hydroxychloroquine?
Immunomodulating and anticlotting effects, helps to decrease risk of blood clots from vasculitis and decreases UV light absorption.
What are priority nursing assessments for Cyclophosphamide?
Monitor temperature, renal function, anemia, bleeding, and pregnancy status.
What is a key patient education priority for SLE?
- Make rest time a priority
- Avoid exposure to UV light
- Identify & avoid stressors
- Know signs of infection
What are the common causes of death in SLE patients?
- Cardiovascular impairment
- Infection
- Chronic kidney disease
True or False: Chronic kidney disease is a common cause of death in SLE patients.
True.
Fill in the blank: The two most common causes of death in SLE are _______ and _______.
[Chronic kidney disease], [Cardiovascular impairment]
What should be avoided when taking long-term corticosteroids?
Never immediately stop long-term corticosteroids.
What is a significant risk associated with all immunosuppressants?
They decrease immunity.
What is a key takeaway regarding UV light exposure for SLE patients?
Avoid prolonged exposure to UV lighting to prevent more frequent flares.
