Question

A client with rheumatoid arthritis exhibits bilateral deformities of the joints of the fingers. The nurse planning care for the client understands that these changes are most likely the result of which cause of inflammation?

1. Allergic
2. Metabolic
3. Endocrine
4. Autoimmune

Answer 1

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in synovial joints, including the fingers. The deformities in the fingers are a result of chronic inflammation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation primarily in synovial joints, including those in the fingers. The exact cause of RA is unknown, but it is characterized by the body's immune system mistakenly attacking healthy joint tissue. This autoimmune response leads to chronic inflammation, which can result in joint deformities.

Therefore, the correct answer is 4. Autoimmune. It is important for the nurse to understand this cause of inflammation in order to plan appropriate care for the client with rheumatoid arthritis.