Which technique should the nurse use when assessing for early signs of rheumatoid arthritis?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Palpating the lymph nodes is not a standard technique for assessing early signs of rheumatoid arthritis. Lymph node enlargement can occur due to various reasons, but it is not specific to rheumatoid arthritis.Choice B reason: Observing the client's fingers is crucial because early signs of rheumatoid arthritis often present in the small joints of the hands and fingers. Symptoms such as swelling, redness, stiffness, and deformities can be evident in these areas.Choice C reason: Observing the skin for lesions is not specific to rheumatoid arthritis. While some skin conditions can be associated with autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis primarily affects the joints.Choice D reason: Palpating large joints for nodules might be relevant in more advanced stages of rheumatoid arthritis, but early signs are typically observed in the small joints of the hands and fingers.