Question

A nurse is providing teaching to the family of a school-age child who has juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. Encourage the child to avoid physical activities to prevent joint pain.
B. Advocate for a diet rich in sugary snacks to maintain energy levels.
C. Emphasize the importance of regular exercise to keep joints flexible.
D. Discourage the use of any assistive devices to promote independence.

Answer 1

To manage juvenile idiopathic arthritis, regular low-impact exercise like swimming or biking is important for maintaining joint mobility and muscle strength, while assistive devices can be used to rest joints during flare-ups. Avoiding sugary snacks and maintaining a balanced diet also contribute to overall joint health maintenance.

Step-by-step explanation:

When teaching a family about managing juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in a child, it's important to convey that regular exercise is vital. Contrary to avoiding physical activities, exercise helps maintain joint mobility and strengthens the muscles surrounding the joints, which can help reduce stress on the joints and slow the progression of arthritis. High-impact exercises should be replaced with low-impact activities, such as swimming or biking, which are easier on the joints. Additionally, using assistive devices like canes during flare-ups can provide joint rest and minimize inflammation, but independence should also be encouraged when possible. Introducing a balanced diet and avoiding sugary snacks are part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which can have indirect benefits on joint health.