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Presentation Outline ïµ Introduction ïµ What is Rheumatoid Arthritis? ïµ How is it diagnosed? ïµ Etiology and risk factors? ïµ How is the body affected? ïµ Progression of the disease ïµ Interventions: Pharmacological & Non-Pharmacological ïµ What is the role of the nurse practitioner? ïµ Implications for the nurse practitioner ïµ Conclusion Rheumatoid Arthritis ïµRheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that attacks the healthy cells in the body and causes inflammation that affects many parts of the body (CDC, 2019). The Diagnosis ïµ Physical Assessment ïµ Symptoms—joint pain, swelling, and stiffness ïµ Family/Medical history ïµ Blood testing ïµ rheumatoid factor, ESR, CRP ïµ Imaging ïµ Xrays, CTs, & MRIs Etitolgoy and Risk Factors ïµ The cause of RA is not linked to only one variable. ïµ RA is considered an autoimmune disorder. ïµ RA can be influenced by genetics, hormones, environmental and lifestyle habits. ("RheumatoidArthritis.org", 2020) How is it diagnosed? (Wasserman, 2018) How is the body affected? ïµ Skin—nodules, rashes, vasculitis ïµ Bones—decreased bone density ïµ Eyes & Mouth—inflammation, dryness, scarring ïµ Lungs—inflammation, scarring, nodules, pulmonary fibrosis (Badgaish et. al, 2018) ïµ Cardiovascular System—atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, pericarditis, anemia, clotting issues ïµ Liver & Kidneys—no direct damage, drug related ïµ Nervous System—no direct damage (Badgaish et. al, 2018) Progression of the disease (Dr. Jockers, n.d.) Interventions ïµ NSAIDs—nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Ibuprofen, Aleve, Advil, Naproxen, Celebrex) ïµ Steroids—corticosteroids (prednisone) ïµ DMARDs--disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (Trexall, Otrexup, Arava, Plaqhenil, Azulfidine) (Mayo Clinic, n.d.) ïµ Biologic agents—biologic response modifiers (Humira, Enbrel, Remicade, etcetera) ïµ Physical and/or occupational therapy ïµ Surgical—synovectomy, tendon repair, joint fusion, total joint replacement
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