Rheumatoid arthritis is a long lasting autoimmune disorder that primarily affects joints. It can cause problems in any joint in the body, although the small joints in the hands and feet are often the first to be affected.
The cause of Rheumatoid arthritis is not yet fully understood, although doctors do know that an abnormal response of the immune system plays a leading role in the inflammation and joint damage that occurs.
The symptoms vary from person to person. The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis often develop gradually over several weeks, but some cases can progress quickly over a number of days.
The main symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis :
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Swelling, warmth and redness
- tiredness and a lack of energy
- a high temperature (fever)
- sweating
- a poor appetite
- weight loss
5 Nursing Diagnosis for Rheumatoid Arthritis
1. Pain (acute / chronic)
related to:
tissue distended by the accumulation of fluid / inflammation,
joint destruction.
2. Impaired physical mobility
related to:
skeletal deformity,
pain,
decreased muscle strength.
3. Body Image Disturbance
related to:
changes in the ability to carry out common tasks,
increased use of energy,
imbalance mobility.
4. Self-care deficit
related to:
musculoskeletal damage,
decreased strength and endurance,
pain when moving,
depression.
5. Knowledge Deficit: about the disease, prognosis, and treatment needs
related to:
lack of exposure / recall,
misinterpretation of information.
