Question

Which characteristic should a nurse recognize as diagnostic of rheumatoid arthritis?

1) Absence of pain
2) Symmetric bilateral joint swelling
3) Evening stiffness that improves with activity
4) Increased appetite

Answer 1

Diagnostic characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis is symmetric bilateral joint swelling.

Step-by-step explanation:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the synovial joints of the hands, feet, and cervical spine. Affected joints become swollen, stiff, and painful. One characteristic that a nurse should recognize as diagnostic of rheumatoid arthritis is symmetric bilateral joint swelling. This means that the swelling occurs in the same joints on both sides of the body.