The primary nursing concern for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is managing chronic pain and inflammation while preserving joint function and preventing deformity through medication management and therapeutic exercises. RA is autoimmune inflammatory arthritis affecting small joints symmetrically, causing pain, swelling, morning stiffness, fatigue. Nursing interventions: administer disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs like methotrexate) and biologics; teach joint protection techniques; encourage appropriate exercise (range of motion, strengthening); apply heat/cold for pain; monitor for medication side effects (infection risk with immunosuppressants, liver/kidney toxicity); and address fatigue management. Documentation includes joint assessment, pain levels, and functional ability. Patient education about disease process, medication adherence, and self-care. Nurses coordinate with rheumatology, physical/occupational therapy. Extra-articular manifestations (lung, heart, eye) require monitoring. RA requires lifelong management with focus on maintaining quality of life and independence.

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Zambia

• loveness Phiri – 745 pts

• Visual Pathway Lesions
• Positive and Negative Symptoms
• Hallucinations and Delusions
• Antipsychotic Medications
• Emergency: Environmental Emergencies