Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is also a chronic, progressive inflammatory disease that affects connective tissue throughout the body causing wide spread damage to organs and systems (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2013). A defining characteristic of SLE is periods of exacerbations then relief, which can occur suddenly or over time. Common assessment finding of an individual with SLE include a butterfly rash on the face, alopecia, and arthritis of the small joints and knee (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2013). As in SSc, Raynaud’s phenomenon may be evident in the fingers and toes. Osteonecrosis and muscle atrophy are common due to chronic steroid therapy used to treat lupus. Immune complexes in SLE attack the kidney, and cause lupus nephritis (Ignatavicius
…show more content…
Management of skin problems associated with SLE involves the use of topical steroids to reduce inflammation. Acetaminophen or NSAIDs may be use to treat pain and joint stiffness. Immunosuppressants may be used to minimize the damage to the kidneys and central nervous system (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2013). For the plan of care, the nurse should include education on the importance of minimal contact with others to avoid infection while on immunosuppressants. It is also important to avoid the direct sun and harsh chemical to reduce further damage to the skin (Ignatavicius & Workman, …show more content…
In order to diagnosis CFS, four or more of the following criteria must be present in addition to fatigue which includes a sore throat, short-term memory impairment, sore lymph nodes, muscle pain, redness or swelling in several joints along with pain, atypical headaches for the individual, non-restorative sleep, or malaise after excretion that last longer than 24 hours (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2013). The exact cause of CFS is unknown, however according to the University of Maryland Medical Center the presents a the following factor including, “viruses or other infections, genes, brain abnormalities, an overreactive immune system, psychiatric or emotional conditions, and stress-related hormonal abnormalities,” may be contributors (para 6, 2012). There are also no diagnostic tests available. Management of sign and symptoms associate with CFS includes reducing pain with the use of NSAIDs, and treating sleep disturbances and depression with antidepressants (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2013). For the plan of care, the nurse should include education on the importance of good nutrition, plenty of sleep, stress management, and daily exercise (Ignatavicius & Workman,
Management of skin problems associated with SLE involves the use of topical steroids to reduce inflammation. Acetaminophen or NSAIDs may be use to treat pain and joint stiffness. Immunosuppressants may be used to minimize the damage to the kidneys and central nervous system (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2013). For the plan of care, the nurse should include education on the importance of minimal contact with others to avoid infection while on immunosuppressants. It is also important to avoid the direct sun and harsh chemical to reduce further damage to the skin (Ignatavicius & Workman, …show more content…
In order to diagnosis CFS, four or more of the following criteria must be present in addition to fatigue which includes a sore throat, short-term memory impairment, sore lymph nodes, muscle pain, redness or swelling in several joints along with pain, atypical headaches for the individual, non-restorative sleep, or malaise after excretion that last longer than 24 hours (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2013). The exact cause of CFS is unknown, however according to the University of Maryland Medical Center the presents a the following factor including, “viruses or other infections, genes, brain abnormalities, an overreactive immune system, psychiatric or emotional conditions, and stress-related hormonal abnormalities,” may be contributors (para 6, 2012). There are also no diagnostic tests available. Management of sign and symptoms associate with CFS includes reducing pain with the use of NSAIDs, and treating sleep disturbances and depression with antidepressants (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2013). For the plan of care, the nurse should include education on the importance of good nutrition, plenty of sleep, stress management, and daily exercise (Ignatavicius & Workman,