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Rheumatoid Arthritis
Term | Definition |
---|---|
What is RA? | A common connective tissue disease Chronic, Progressive, Systemic inflammatory autoimmune disease, affects primarily synovial joints Transformed autoantibodies (rheumatoid factors IgG IgM types) form and attack healthy tissue causing inflammation |
Early signs | Joint stiffness, Swelling, Pain, Fatigue, Weakness, Anorexia, Paresthesias |
Late signs | Deformities, Moderate to severe pain, Morning stiffness, Anemia, Weight loss, Severe fatigue, Subcutaneous nodules, Peripheral neuropathy, Vasculitits, Pericarditis, Periungual lesions, |
Sjogren's Syndrome | Dry eyes, Dry mouth, Dry vagina |
Labs | Rheumatoid factor, Antinuclear antibody titer, ESR, Serum complement (C3 and C4), Serum protein electrophoresis, Serum immunoglobins |
Diagnostic Screenings | X-ray, CT, Arthrocentesis, Bone scan |
What are the priority collorative problems for patients with RA? | *Chronic inflammation and pain *Potential for decreased mobility *Potential for decreased self-esteem image |
Managing chronic inflammation and pain | DMARDs -Disease Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs NSAIDs BRMs - Biological response Modifiers Glucocorticoids Immunosuppresive agents |
DMARDs | Disease Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs Methotrexate - Cytotoxic Immunosuppressant |
BRMs | Biological Response Modifiers - reduce signals for the immune system to cause inflammation |
Nonphamacologic pain management interventions | Adequate rest Proper positioning Ice/Heat Self-management/Autonomy Management of fatigue Enhance body image |