Rheumatoid Arthritis Flashcards

1
Q

Describe Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Characterized by periods of ___ and ____.

A

Chronic, progressive, systemic inflammatory autoimmune disease
Autoantibodies, Rheumatoid factors (RF’s), attack healthy tissue, especially synovium
Periods of Remission and Exacerbations

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2
Q

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Cause:

What is suspected to trigger RA? (2)

A

UNCLEAR! Combination of:

  1. Environmental*
  2. Genetic*
  3. Gender* (females)

Triggers:

  1. Infections
    - Epstein Barr Virus (EBV aka mono)
  2. Hormones?
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3
Q

What can trigger exacerbations of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?

A

Stress

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4
Q

Is there a Cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?

A

Nope, but if treated early, debilitating

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5
Q

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) affects joint _____

A

SYMMETRICALLY!**

-distinguishing characteristic from osteoarthritis

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6
Q

Assessment + Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Onset of Sxs?

A

Onset can be rapid/acute or slow/progressive

Onset more commonly occurs in winter months

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7
Q

Assessment + Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Describe how Sxs initially present:

A

Sxs may be vague at onset (weeks to months)

-weakness, fatigue, weight loss, low-grade fever, joint inflammation

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8
Q

Assessment + Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Describe the Early Presentation of RA:
What joints are affected first?

A
  1. S/S of joint inflammation
    -slightly reddened, warm, tender, swollen, stiff
    -Bilateral and Symmetric
    -Migratory arthritis in early disease
    More commonly affects upper extremity joints first
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9
Q

Assessment + Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Describe the Late Presentation of RA:

A

Worsened joint inflammation with more joint involvement

  1. Joint Effusions
  2. gel phenomenon
  3. Spindle-like fingers
  4. Muscle atrophy (decreased ROM)
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10
Q

What joints may become involved if RA is left untreated and becomes severe?

A
  1. TMJ

2. Cervical joints

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11
Q

What should we suspect if a patient presents with one hot, swollen, painful joint?

A

Joint INFECTION!

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12
Q

What type of cyst is associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?

A

Baker’s cyst: fluid-filled; enlarged popliteal bursae

“Rheuma’s got a Baker’s dozen”

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13
Q

Systemic Inflammation resulting from Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is due to inflammation of ______ tissue in other parts of the body.

A

CONNECTIVE tissue

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14
Q

What are the 3 main organs affected by systemic inflammation caused by Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?

A

HEART
LUNGS
EYES

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15
Q

What is Sjogren’s Syndrome and what is the best intervention?

A

Dry eyes, xerostomia, or vaginal dryness

LUBRICATION!

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16
Q

What else is important to assess in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)? (3)

A
  1. QUALITY OF LIFE
    - mobility, fatigue, physical appearance
  2. SUPPORT
  3. EXACERBATIONS
    - physical and emotional stress
17
Q

Arthrocentesis can be done for ______ and also _____

A

Diagnosis and Treatment (relieve pressure)

18
Q

Post-care considerations following an Arthrocentesis

A
  1. Rest
  2. Ice
  3. Oral analgesics
19
Q

Interventions + Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):

What are the 5 main Interventions for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?

A
  1. Pain
  2. Infection
  3. Mobility
  4. Fatigue
  5. Psychosocial

Promote setting priorities for balance, rest, and independence

20
Q

Interventions + Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):

Infection Interventions:

A
  1. Educate pt that drugs used will increase the risk of infection
  2. Promote HYGIENE!!
  3. Avoid large crowds
21
Q
Interventions + Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):
Pain interventions (5)
A
  1. Rest (Balance & Set priorities)
  2. Position
  3. Ice
  4. Heat/ Paraffin
  5. Hot Shower in the morning
22
Q

What intervention can help with gel phenomenon?

A

Hot showers first thing in the morning

“Get steamy RAby”

23
Q
Interventions + Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):
Mobility interventions (3)
A
  1. Occupational therapy referral
  2. Assistive devices
  3. PT referral
24
Q
Interventions + Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):
Fatigue Interventions (2)
A
  1. Pace activities
    - rest and activity
  2. Set priorities
25
Q
Interventions + Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):
Psychosocial Interventions (3)
A
  1. Coping
    - help them to find HEALTHY coping mechanisms
  2. Body Image
  3. Support
26
Q

Interventions + Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):

CAM Interventions:

A
  1. Acupuncture
  2. Hypnosis
  3. Imagery (virtual reality)
  4. Stress Management
  5. Proper Nutrition
  6. Supplements (chondroitin, hyaluronate)