Related Experiment Videos
Rheumatoid arthritis and the older adult
1DI Associates Inc. in Hughesville, MD, USA.
Geriatric Nursing (New York, N.Y.)
|June 19, 2001
Summary
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a destructive inflammatory joint disease. Late-onset RA (LORA) in older adults presents diagnostic challenges and impacts nursing care.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Geriatric Medicine
- Inflammatory Diseases
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a prevalent, destructive inflammatory joint disease.
- It is characterized by systemic inflammation affecting connective tissues.
- Unlike osteoarthritis, RA involves primary inflammation rather than degeneration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the characteristics of late-onset rheumatoid arthritis (LORA).
- To discuss the diagnostic challenges associated with LORA.
- To underscore the implications of RA in older adults for nursing care.
Main Methods:
- Review of RA pathophysiology and clinical presentation.
- Analysis of LORA onset patterns (acute vs. insidious).
- Consideration of RA prevalence in elderly populations.
Main Results:
- RA is the most destructive form of inflammatory arthritis affecting synovial joints.
- LORA can have an acute or insidious onset, complicating diagnosis.
- RA significantly impacts older adults in various care settings.
Conclusions:
- RA requires careful management, especially in older adults.
- Delayed diagnosis in LORA poses significant challenges.
- Effective nursing care strategies are crucial for managing RA in the elderly.