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Initial evaluation of the arthritic patient. Piecing together the diagnostic clues
Postgraduate Medicine
|October 1, 1986
Abstract:
Evaluation of the arthritic patient as outlined in this article should enable the physician to formulate a working diagnosis that will suggest appropriate therapy. Initial evaluation includes thorough history taking, general and rheumatologic examination, selected laboratory tests (including synovial fluid analysis where appropriate), and radiologic studies. An individualized approach to patients is necessary, since each of the rheumatic diseases can affect patients in different ways.
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01:05Data Collection III
The physical assessment examines the patient for objective data that defines the patient's condition, and aids in formulating the nursing care plan. The purpose of physical assessment is a health status appraisal, which includes identifying health problems, and establishing a database for nursing intervention.
The principles to begin the physical assessment include conducting a comprehensive or problem-related history in a quiet, well-lit room, emphasizing privacy and comfort for the patient.
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