impaired physical mobility nursing diagnosis

Radionuclide scans: Identify inflamed synovium.Concurrent osteoarthritic changes may be noted. X-rays of involved joints: Reveals soft-tissue swelling, erosion of joints, and osteoporosis of adjacent bone (early changes) progressing to bone-cyst formation, narrowing of joint space, and subluxation.Immunoglobulin (Ig) (IgM and IgG): Elevation strongly suggests autoimmune process as cause for RA.WBC is elevated when inflammatory processes are present. May return to normal as symptoms improve. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): Usually greatly increased (80–100 mm/hr).Immune disorder/exhaustion results in depressed total complement levels. Serum complement: C 3 and C 4 increased in acute onset (inflammatory response).Agglutination reactions: Positive in more than 50% of typical cases.Latex fixation: Positive in 75% of typical cases.Rheumatoid factor (RF): Positive in more than 80% of cases (Rose-Waaler test).Follow-up tests are needed for the specific rheumatic disorders, e.g., anti-RNP is used for differential diagnosis of systemic rheumatic disease. Antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer: Screening test for rheumatic disorders, elevated in 25%–30% of RA patients.Several factors contribute to the diagnosis of RA. Some NSAIDs are likely to cause gastric irritation and ulceration. Immunosuppressive agents such as methotrexate and cyclophosphamide are highly toxic and can produce anemia. Improper use of immunosuppressants could lead to bone marrow suppression. Medications used for treating rheumatoid arthritis may cause serious and adverse side effects.

Rheumatoid nodules may be noted in patients with more advanced RA, and they are nontender and movable in the subcutaneous tissue. Deformities of the hands and feet may be caused by misalignment resulting in swelling. Because of the pain, mobilizing the affected area has limitations. Redness of the affected area is a sign of inflammation. There is warmth in the affected joint and upon palpation, the joints are spongy or boggy. Limitation in function occurs as a result of swollen joints. One of the classic signs, joints that are painful are not easily moved.

Substances such as silica and mineral oil may harm the worker and result in contact dermatitis.Ĭlinical manifestations of RA vary, usually reflecting the stage and severity of tge disease.

Environmental factors such as exposure to cigarette smoke, air pollution, and insecticides. 70% of people with RA are women, and this occur because of the fluctuations of the female hormones. Infectious agents such as bacteria and viruses may trigger the development of the disease in a person whose genes make them more likely to get it. Researchers have shown that people with a specific gene marker called the HLA shared epitope have a fivefold greater chance of developing rheumatoid arthritis than do people without the marker.

The ratio of female to male with RA is between 2:1 and 4:1.ĭiffuse connective tissue diseases have unknown causes, but they are also thought to be the result of immunologic abnormalities.

Rheumatoid arthritis affects 1% of the population worldwide.

Rheumatoid arthritis is common worldwide. Muscle fibers undergo degenerative changes, and tendon and ligament elasticity and contractile power are lost. The consequences are loss of articular surfaces and joint motion. Pannus destroys cartilage and erodes the bone. The enzymes break down collagen, causing edema, proliferation of the synovial membrane, and ultimately pannus formation. Phagocytosis produces enzymes within the joint. In RA, the autoimmune reaction primarily occurs in the synovial tissue. The pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis is brief and concise.

It is characterized by diffuse inflammation and degeneration in the connective tissues.

It is classified as a diffuse connective tissue disease and is chronic in nature.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease of unknown origin.

Rheumatoid arthritis is classified as a diffuse connective tissue disease. By understanding the unique needs of RA patients and implementing evidence-based nursing strategies, we can make a significant difference in their journey toward better health and well-being. This article aims to shed light on the crucial nursing interventions, patient education, and holistic support required to improve the lives of those living with this challenging condition. As nurses, our role in the care of patients with RA is paramount. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects millions of individuals worldwide, causing joint inflammation, pain, and potential disability.

Impaired physical mobility nursing diagnosis