Answer 4 for NURS 6501 NEUROLOGICAL AND MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS MODULE 4 Scenario 3: Rheumatoid Arthritis

NURS 6501 NEUROLOGICAL AND MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS MODULE 4

Osteoporosis is a chronic metabolic disorder that presents with bone loss, causing a decreased bone density and increasing the risk of fracture. The commonly affected bones are the spine, hip, and wrist. Osteoporosis is diagnosed in a patient with a T-score at or below −2.5 (Akkawi & Zmerly, 2018). Common osteoporosis manifestations are loss of height, back pain with bending, lifting, or stooping, and fractures. Osteoporosis develops when bone resorption exceeds bone building, resulting in decreased bone mineral density (BMD). BMD decreases more rapidly in postmenopausal females due to decreased serum estrogen levels. Estrogen helps in preventing bone loss. 

Reference 

Akkawi, I., & Zmerly, H. (2018). Osteoporosis: Current Concepts. Joints, 6(2), 122–127. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0038-1660790 

Sample

A 48-year-old woman presents with a five-month history of generalized joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, especially in her hands. She states that these symptoms have made it difficult to grasp objects and has made caring for her grandchildren problematic. She admits to increased fatigue, but she thought it was due to her stressful job.

FH: Grandmothers had “crippling” arthritis. 

PE: remarkable for bilateral ulnar deviation of her hands as well as soft, boggy proximal interphalangeal joints. The metatarsals of both of her feet also exhibited swelling and warmth. 

Diagnosis: rheumatoid arthritis.

Question:

The pt. had various symptoms, explain how these factors are associated with RA and what is the difference between RA and OA?