The nurse establishes a nursing problem of "Fatigue related to inability to rest comfortably secondary to rheumatoid arthritis." Which nursing intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care for this client?
Explanation & Rationale
A. RA often causes joint pain and stiffness, which can make it challenging to complete daily activities. Teaching the client how to set priorities and pace their activities helps them balance exertion with rest, thus reducing fatigue and improving overall function. This approach supports effective management of their condition by preventing overexertion and allowing time for recovery. B. While rest is important for managing fatigue, strict bedrest is generally not recommended for RA patients. Prolonged bedrest can lead to muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and decreased mobility. Active management through appropriate rest and activity is usually more beneficial than complete bedrest. C. Transferring to an assisted living center may be appropriate for some clients, but this intervention is not necessarily related to managing fatigue due to rheumatoid arthritis in the current context. This decision would typically depend on the overall level of care needed and the client’s living situation. D. While providing reassurance is part of supportive care, it’s important to address the specific needs and management strategies for fatigue. Simply offering assurance without practical interventions may not effectively address the client’s current symptoms or help them manage their condition in the long term.