Question

A nurse is reinforcing discharge teaching with the guardian of a child who has juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Which of the following statements by the parent indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. I will give my child ibuprofen every 6 hours, even if they don't seem to be in pain.
B. I will make sure my child gets plenty of rest and avoids strenuous activity when their joints are swollen or painful.
C. I will apply heat to my child's swollen joints for 20 minutes at a time, 3 times a day.
D. I will give my child a cool bath to help reduce joint pain and swelling.
E. I will take my child to see their doctor for follow-up appointments every 3 months.

Answer 1

The understanding of discharge teaching for a child with JIA is best indicated by ensuring the child rests and avoids strenuous activities during episodes of joint swelling or pain. Treatment options include rest, NSAIDs, heat application, and regular medical follow-ups.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks which statement by the parent indicates an understanding of discharge teaching for a child with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). The correct statement that indicates an understanding is: B. I will make sure my child gets plenty of rest and avoids strenuous activity when their joints are swollen or painful. This aligns with the recommended treatment options for the early stages of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and related inflammatory conditions, which include rest, pain relief, reduction of inflammation, and avoidance of activities that could worsen joint swelling or pain. Regular use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen is also a part of the treatment to control symptoms, though it may not be recommended to give them when the child is not in pain. Heat application can help in reducing stiffness and should be used alongside other treatments. Regular doctor visits are crucial to monitor the condition.