Rheumatoid Arthritis (Free NCLEX Review) l Winning Wednesday with Professor Regina MSN, RN

ReMar Nurse RN & LPN58 minutes read

The session led by Regina focuses on rheumatoid arthritis, underscoring its significance for nursing students preparing for the NCLEX exam while promoting a Black Friday event featuring discounted Quick Facts books for students. Key points discussed include the symptoms and complications of rheumatoid arthritis, diagnostic criteria, treatment options, and the importance of effective patient care and thorough preparation for nursing exams.

Insights

  • The session led by Regina, an MSN RN, highlights the importance of understanding rheumatoid arthritis for nursing students preparing for the NCLEX exam, emphasizing its systemic nature and the need for effective patient care strategies, including recognizing early symptoms and complications.
  • A Black Friday promotional event is set to offer Quick Facts books at a discounted price of $10, encouraging nursing students to engage with valuable study materials while providing their contact information for updates on special deals and resources.
  • Key diagnostic criteria for rheumatoid arthritis include positive elevated rheumatoid factor and specific imaging changes, with blood tests often revealing signs of systemic inflammation, underscoring the necessity for thorough assessment and differentiation from other types of arthritis for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
  • Nursing priorities for managing rheumatoid arthritis patients involve effective pain management, promoting mobility, and ensuring proper posture to support joint health, while also addressing psychosocial aspects of care, such as potential depression and anxiety related to chronic pain conditions.

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Recent questions

  • What is rheumatoid arthritis?

    Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. It is an autoimmune condition, meaning the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, particularly the synovium, which is the lining of the joints. This inflammation can result in joint damage and deformities over time. RA is characterized by symmetrical symptoms, often affecting both sides of the body equally, and it commonly starts in smaller joints such as those in the hands and wrists. Early symptoms may include fatigue, loss of appetite, and general malaise, which can lead to misdiagnosis. As the disease progresses, more specific symptoms like joint stiffness, especially in the morning, and pain become apparent. Understanding RA is crucial for effective management and treatment, which may include medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgical interventions.

  • How can I manage joint pain?

    Managing joint pain, particularly in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, and medication. First, maintaining a healthy weight is essential, as excess weight can put additional stress on the joints. Regular low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, can help improve joint flexibility and strength without causing further damage. Heat and cold therapy can also be beneficial; applying heat can relax muscles and improve circulation, while cold packs can reduce inflammation and numb sharp pain. Additionally, over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can provide relief from pain and swelling. For more severe cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow disease progression. It's also important to incorporate rest periods and listen to your body to avoid overexertion, which can exacerbate pain. Consulting with a healthcare professional for a personalized pain management plan is highly recommended.

  • What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?

    The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can vary widely among individuals but typically include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Early symptoms may be non-specific and include fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss, which can lead to delays in diagnosis. As the disease progresses, more recognizable symptoms develop, such as prolonged morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes, and pain in multiple joints, especially in a symmetrical pattern. Commonly affected areas include the hands, wrists, and knees. In some cases, individuals may also experience systemic symptoms, such as fever and malaise. Complications can arise, including the development of other conditions like Sjögren's syndrome, which causes dryness in the eyes and mouth. Recognizing these symptoms early is crucial for effective management and treatment, as early intervention can help prevent joint damage and improve quality of life.

  • What treatments are available for rheumatoid arthritis?

    Treatments for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) focus on reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and preventing joint damage. A comprehensive approach often includes both pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), such as Methotrexate, are essential for slowing disease progression and preventing joint damage. Biologic agents may also be prescribed for patients who do not respond to traditional DMARDs. In addition to medication, lifestyle modifications play a significant role in managing RA. Regular exercise, physical therapy, and maintaining a healthy weight can improve joint function and overall well-being. Complementary therapies, such as acupuncture and massage, may provide additional relief. In severe cases, surgical options like joint replacement or tendon repair may be considered. A tailored treatment plan developed in consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial for effectively managing RA.

  • How does rheumatoid arthritis differ from other arthritis types?

    Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) differs from other types of arthritis primarily in its underlying cause, symptoms, and progression. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is primarily due to wear and tear on the joints, RA is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the synovium, leading to inflammation and joint damage. RA typically presents with symmetrical symptoms, affecting both sides of the body equally, and often involves multiple joints simultaneously, particularly in the hands and wrists. In contrast, gout, another form of arthritis, is characterized by sudden and severe pain in one or two joints, often triggered by dietary factors, and is self-limiting. Additionally, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis can occur in children and may present differently, often with systemic symptoms like fever. Understanding these differences is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, as the management strategies can vary significantly between the different types of arthritis.

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Summary

00:00

Rheumatoid Arthritis Insights for Nursing Students

  • The session focuses on rheumatoid arthritis, emphasizing its significance for nursing students preparing for the NCLEX exam, led by Regina, an MSN RN.
  • A promotional event for Black Friday is announced, starting with a special offer on Quick Facts books, priced at $10 each on November 10, 2023, to support nursing students.
  • To access the $10 Quick Facts offer, participants must RSVP on the Remar Nurse website, providing their name, email, and phone number for updates on Black Friday deals.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis primarily affects the musculoskeletal system, characterized by inflammation of the joints, with the term "rheumatoid" indicating muscular skeletal involvement.
  • The disease is symmetrical and systemic, meaning it affects both sides of the body equally, commonly impacting the hands and wrists, leading to inflammation and pain.
  • Early symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can be non-specific, including fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss, often leading to misdiagnosis before more recognizable symptoms like joint stiffness and pain develop.
  • Complications of rheumatoid arthritis include Sjögren's syndrome, which causes extreme dryness in the eyes and mouth, and can significantly impact the patient's quality of life.
  • Differentiation between rheumatoid arthritis and other types of arthritis is crucial; for example, gout is self-limiting and typically affects one or two joints, while osteoarthritis does not involve an inflammatory response.
  • Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis can occur in children as young as six weeks, often presenting with fever and joint stiffness, which differs from adult presentations that typically lack fever.
  • The session encourages participants to engage and share their experiences, highlighting the importance of understanding the symptoms and complications of rheumatoid arthritis for effective patient care.

17:21

Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosis and Treatment

  • Nurse Amy emphasizes the importance of reading the quick facts and V2 materials thoroughly, as they contain valuable case studies that are essential for understanding conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
  • Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by morning stiffness, affecting three or more joint areas, primarily starting in the hands and wrists, and involves bilateral joint symptoms.
  • Key diagnostic criteria for RA include positive elevated rheumatoid factor, which is a protein that attacks the body, and radiographic changes indicating abnormal body shape, with symptoms persisting for at least six weeks.
  • Blood tests for RA typically show positive rheumatoid factor, elevated globulin and immunoglobulin levels, and an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), which measures how quickly red blood cells settle in the blood, indicating inflammation.
  • A complete blood count in RA patients often reveals low hemoglobin and hematocrit levels due to anemia caused by systemic inflammation affecting red blood cell production.
  • Synovial fluid analysis in RA patients shows increased volume, decreased viscosity, and elevated white blood cell counts due to inflammation, while imaging tests reveal bone demineralization and soft tissue swelling.
  • Treatment for RA includes lifestyle modifications to manage morning stiffness, with recommendations for warm environments to improve joint mobility, and psychosocial interventions to address potential depression and anxiety.
  • Pharmacological treatments involve non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) like Methotrexate, and gold salts, with Methotrexate being contraindicated in pregnancy and alcohol use due to its potential adverse effects.
  • Surgical options for RA may include metatarsal and distal joint resection, arthrodesis (joint fusion), and tendon repair, although surgery is not the primary treatment method.
  • Nursing priorities for RA patients include effective pain management, maintaining mobility, ensuring skin integrity, and providing adaptive devices like canes or walkers to support joint function and overall well-being.

36:03

Nursing Care and Black Friday Promotions

  • For clients with hip pain and rheumatoid arthritis, the recommended chair options include: a soft chair with cushions, a cushion rocking chair with arm support, a wooden chair with an elevated seat and straight back, and a rocking chair with a curved back, with the best choice being the wooden chair for proper support and posture.
  • Maintaining proper posture and body alignment is crucial for clients with rheumatoid arthritis, as it helps support joints and reduce pain and stiffness, particularly by avoiding hip flexion and the 90-degree angle when seated.
  • When educating a female client prescribed with Methotrexate, the most critical information to convey is that pregnancy should be avoided due to the teratogenic effects of the medication, necessitating the use of birth control.
  • In a scenario where a client with rheumatoid arthritis reports pain at 2 PM after receiving aspirin at 10 AM, the nurse's first action should be to assess the client's pain rather than immediately administering medication, as proper assessment is essential for safe intervention.
  • The nurse must consider that pain reported by the client could stem from various sources, such as a migraine or abdominal pain, rather than solely from rheumatoid arthritis, highlighting the importance of thorough assessment before treatment.
  • The Black Friday promotions for Remar Nursing products will begin on November 10th, with special pricing on items like the "Quick Facts" book, which will be available for $10, a significant discount from its usual price.
  • To receive updates on Black Friday sales and promotions, individuals should sign up at remarnurse.com, providing their name, email, and phone number for text alerts about upcoming events and offers.
  • Remar Nursing will also offer t-shirts and hoodies for sale, with the current price for t-shirts being $24.99, and there are plans to introduce these items online for Black Friday.
  • The V2 subscription service for nursing exam preparation will maintain its current monthly rate of $50, with no changes planned for renewals, while other products will be available at discounted rates during the Black Friday event.
  • Testimonials from successful nursing candidates emphasize the effectiveness of Remar Nursing's study materials and classes, encouraging new students to engage with the resources provided to enhance their exam preparation.

52:37

Nursing Students Prepare for NCLEX Success

  • The V2 course is available for $50, and it is recommended to enroll at a lower price to continue studying effectively, especially for nursing students preparing for exams.
  • A new book under the Quicka series, specifically designed for nursing students taking pharmacology and Med Surge, will be promoted soon, with a focus on the red book for current students.
  • Students preparing for the NCLEX should prioritize the red book and avoid the blue book, which is intended for those further along in their nursing education.
  • To receive promotions and updates, students should sign up at remarnurse.com for Black Friday, with a release date for new materials expected in about a week.
  • The CAT exam, part of the V2 course, should be taken after completing content study sessions, with two CAT exams available to simulate the NCLEX experience and reduce test anxiety.
  • The first CAT exam is designed to provide experience with a five-hour testing format, where time continues to run even if breaks are taken, mirroring the actual NCLEX conditions.
  • After completing the CAT exam, students will receive a report detailing areas of strength and weakness, allowing them to focus their studies on specific topics in the question bank.
  • A printable calendar and V2 resources are available to help students organize their study schedule effectively.
  • Therapeutic communication strategies, such as the acronym SOLAR (Sit, Observe, Listen, At eye level, Relax), are essential for nurses to help clients express their feelings and should avoid personal opinions and false reassurances.
  • Important medication parameters, such as holding rates for Digoxin based on heart rate, and antidotes for various medications, including magnesium sulfate and insulin, are crucial knowledge for nursing students preparing for the NCLEX.

01:10:43

Advancing Nursing Through Flight and Education

  • The helicopter used in medical emergencies is equipped to perform various critical procedures, including the insertion of chest tubes and artificial airways. It contains both oxygen, which is a medication, and medical air, which is essentially room air used primarily for infants to maintain lung pressure without medication, as explained by a nurse named Donna during a visit to Michigan.
  • Donna presented Mark with a challenge coin from flight nurses, symbolizing recognition for extraordinary efforts in nursing, particularly in the context of their work with inlex prep. She emphasized the importance of pursuing flight nursing, which requires ICU experience, acute medicine knowledge, pediatrics, and potentially a Critical Care Resource nurse certification.
  • The speaker encourages aspiring nurses to focus on their career goals, especially during the holiday season, suggesting that investing in their education and skills is more valuable than material gifts. They highlight the importance of attending a class on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, to further their nursing careers and seize opportunities for advancement.
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