Nursing Assessment, Management and Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases
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● Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) : These tests can help in the assessment of soft tissue. Treatment Signs and symptoms vary according to the severity of the disease and the areas of the body that are affected. Medications Various medications may be adminis- tered. These include the following (Gard- ner, 2020; Mayo Clinic, 2019): ● Steroidal creams or pills : Steroid preparations are administered to reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation. Steroids may also loosen tight, stiff skin and slow the progression of new skin changes. ● Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) : NSAIDs are given to reduce pain and swelling. ● Anti-hypertensive medications : These medications help to dilate blood vessels and increase circulation. They may help in the prevention of lung and kidney issues and treat Raynaud’s disease. ● Acid reducers : Medications (e.g., ● Immune system suppressants : Medications given to suppress the immune system (such as those taken after organ transplants) may help with symptom reductions. ● Analgesics : Analgesics are taken to reduce pain. protein pump inhibitors) reduce gastric acid to help to relieve heartburn. ● Gastrointestinal stimulants : These drugs increase motility of the gastrointestinal muscle. They work to move the contents of the gastrointestinal tract more rapidly without acting as a purgative.
Therapies Physical and occupational therapies may be ordered. These therapies are designed to help patients manage pain, improve their strength and mobility, and maintain independence with ADLs (Mayo Clinic, 2019). Surgery Surgery is typically considered to be last resort to use for severe scleroder- ma complications. Amputation may be necessary if Raynaud’s disease has pro- gressed to the point of tissue death. Lung transplants may be indicated for patients with severe respiratory system issues (Mayo Clinic, 2019). Nursing interventions In addition to typical patient/fami- ly education initiatives such as medica- tion education, nurses are also viewed as healthcare professionals who provide much-needed emotional support. A chronic disease with potentially serious complications leads to stress and anxiety. Patients and families may benefit from joining support groups and obtaining mental health counseling (American Col- lege of Rheumatology, 2019; Rebar et al., 2019). Nurses should be instrumental in help- ing patients to lead a healthy lifestyle. Patients are encouraged to (Mayo Clinic, 2019): ● Stay active : Exercise helps to maintain flexibility, improve circulation, and relieve stiffness. Patients should be taught to perform self-range-of-motion exercises to help keep skin and joints flexible. Before starting an exercise program, the primary healthcare provider should be consulted.
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