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    ATI LPN paediatrics proctored exam

    A nurse is caring for a child who has juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

    Explanation & Rationale

    A. Maintain night splints to the affected joint: Night splints help maintain joint position and function during sleep, preventing contractures and deformities. This is a common intervention in managing juvenile rheumatoid arthritis to ensure proper joint alignment and minimize pain and stiffness. B. Encourage the child to take daytime naps: Daytime naps can lead to prolonged periods of immobility, which may increase stiffness and pain in joints. Maintaining regular activity and exercise is usually recommended to preserve joint function. C. Administer opioids on a schedule: Opioids are not typically first-line treatment for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis due to potential side effects and risk of dependence. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are more commonly used. D. Apply cool compresses for 20 min every hour: Cool compresses may provide temporary relief for acute joint pain but are not recommended on a regular schedule due to risk of skin damage and reduced joint flexibility. Heat application is more commonly used for chronic pain relief in arthritis.

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