Reference no: EM133954922
Question
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Patient Profile
Grace Anderson, a 30-year-old married African American woman, is seen at the rheumatology clinic following a recent vacation to Hawaii.
Subjective Data
Works in a flower shop
Complains of joint pain, photosensitivity, fatigue, and a facial rash
Is 4 months pregnant
Has Raynaud's phenomenon when she works in the refrigerator room stocking flowers
Fears something is horribly wrong with her
Is afraid to take drugs because of pregnancy
Objective Data
Physical Examination
Malar rash
Swelling of third and fourth metacarpophalangeal joints of both hands
Dry, scaly scalp
Pain on motion of both wrists, shoulders, and knees with no obvious swelling
Diagnostic Studies
WBC count 4000/μl (4 x 109/L)
Platelets 100,000/μl (150 x 109/L)
Complement (C3) 60 mg/dl (0.6 g/L)
Positive ANA and Sm antibodies
Collaborative Care
Diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus
Started on prednisone 10 mg daily
Critical Thinking Questions
1. How might the nurse explain the pathophysiology of SLE to Grace?
2. How might the vacation have influenced the symptoms that she is currently experiencing?
3. What are some home and work modifications that the nurse can suggest to Grace that will reduce her symptoms?
4. Discuss the types of prenatal and postpartum considerations essential in caring for Grace.
5. What other sources of information regarding systemic lupus erythematosus might the nurse suggest to Grace and her family?
6. Based on the assessment data presented, write one or more nursing diagnoses. Are there any collaborative problems?
7. Create a care plan based on the case study.