Question

If a patient with severe joint pain and swelling has been diagnosed w/ Rheumatoid Arthritis and has failed to follow through with referral to a rheumatologist, the ambulatory care nurse should:

A. Take no action, this is the patients choice
B. Explain how the treatment can help prevent further deterioration and relive pain
C. Advise the patient that he or she is exercising bad judgement
D. Remind the patient that RA an cause severe damage

Answer 1

The ambulatory care nurse should explain how treatment can prevent further joint deterioration and relieve pain in a patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis who has not seen a rheumatologist.The right answer is option B

Step-by-step explanation:

If a patient with severe joint pain and swelling has been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and has failed to follow through with a referral to a rheumatologist, the ambulatory care nurse should explain how the treatment can help prevent further deterioration and relieve pain. Despite there being no cure for RA, there are treatment options available that can significantly improve the patient's quality of life. Treatment includes reducing symptoms and preventing damage to bone and cartilage. Medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, topical pain relievers, and corticosteroid injections can be used to manage pain and inflammation. In some cases, surgery might be necessary to address severe joint damage. It is also important to rest affected joints and engage in exercise to strengthen muscles for joint flexibility once inflammation subsides. The nurse should provide this information in a professional and supportive manner to encourage the patient to seek the necessary specialist care.