What is Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Grace
- Sep 11
- 3 min read
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): A Nursing Student’s Guide
Introduction
Arthritis Awareness Month gives us the opportunity to explore the different types of arthritis that nursing students will encounter in practice. While osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form, Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) stands apart because it is an autoimmune disorder that not only affects the joints, but can also damage other organ systems. Understanding RA’s pathology, symptoms, and treatment is essential for nursing students preparing to work in both acute and chronic care settings.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic, autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium — the lining of the joints. This leads to persistent inflammation, joint deformity, and, if untreated, disability. Unlike OA, which is degenerative and mechanical, RA is inflammatory and immune-mediated.
Why this is important for nursing students:
RA requires recognition beyond joint pain — systemic effects can include cardiovascular disease, lung involvement, and fatigue.
Nurses play a vital role in early detection, patient education, and medication adherence.
Signs and Symptoms of RA
Morning stiffness lasting >30 minutes
Symmetrical joint swelling (especially small joints of hands, wrists, and feet)
Warmth, redness, and tenderness over affected joints
Fatigue, fever, and malaise in systemic cases
Rheumatoid nodules (firm lumps under the skin)
Smoking considerably increases your risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Why this is important: Recognizing these classic features helps nursing students differentiate RA from OA and other joint conditions. Early recognition improves outcomes.
Diagnostic Tools
Laboratory tests: Rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP antibodies, ESR, CRP
Imaging: X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to detect joint erosion and inflammation
Why this is important: Nursing students should understand how diagnostic tests confirm RA, guide treatment, and monitor disease progression.
Treatment Approaches
Pharmacological
DMARDs (Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs) like methotrexate
Biologic agents (TNF inhibitors, interleukin blockers)
NSAIDs and corticosteroids for symptom relief
Non-pharmacological
Physical therapy and occupational therapy
Heat/cold application for pain management
Patient education on joint protection and energy conservation
Surgical interventions
Joint replacement may be necessary in advanced cases
Why this is important: Nursing students will frequently support patients in managing medications with serious side effects (e.g., methotrexate toxicity), provide education on infection risk with biologics, and reinforce lifestyle modifications.
Nursing Considerations
Monitor for medication side effects (hepatotoxicity, bone marrow suppression, increased infection risk).
Encourage adherence to long-term treatment plans.
Provide holistic care, addressing both the physical and psychosocial aspects of living with a chronic illness.
Support self-management strategies (e.g., pacing activities, using adaptive devices).
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RESOURCES:
Author - Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd
Grace. T
Medical Content Writer
