A 55-year-old female patient with rheumatoid arthritis reports increasing fatigue and difficulty performing daily activities. Which nursing intervention should be prioritized to effectively address her fatigue and enhance her quality of life?

Rationale: A. Complete avoidance of activity can lead to muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, decreased endurance, and worsening fatigue. While rest is important during flare-ups, total inactivity is detrimental to overall function and quality of life. B. Extended rest alone does not address fatigue or loss of joint mobility. Excessive inactivity can contribute to deconditioning, increased stiffness, and diminished independence. C. Moderate, low-impact exercise such as walking, swimming, or gentle range-of-motion exercises has been shown to reduce fatigue, improve muscle strength, enhance joint mobility, and increase energy levels in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. This intervention supports independence in daily activities and overall quality of life. Exercise should be tailored to the patient’s tolerance and combined with periods of rest during flare-ups. D. While proper nutrition is important, increasing caloric intake alone will not reduce fatigue or improve joint function. Focus should be on a balanced diet that supports overall health, rather than excessive calories, which could lead to weight gain and additional joint stress.