A nurse is providing care for a client who is experiencing an acute exacerbation of systemic lupus erythematosus. Which of the following findings should the nurse anticipate?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Diplopia. Double vision (diplopia) is more commonly associated with neurological or ophthalmic disorders such as multiple sclerosis or cranial nerve dysfunction. It is not a typical manifestation of lupus exacerbations. B. Fever. Fever is a common and expected finding during an acute exacerbation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It results from systemic inflammation and immune system activation, often indicating disease flare-up or potential infection. C. Esophagitis. Esophagitis is more often linked to gastroesophageal reflux disease or infections, not systemic lupus. Although lupus can affect many organs, the esophagus is not a typical site of acute involvement in SLE exacerbations. D. Bradykinesia. Bradykinesia, or slowness of movement, is a hallmark feature of Parkinson’s disease. It is not associated with SLE and would not be expected during a lupus flare.