CHAPTER 3 Immune System^157
- Physical therapy and occupational therapy to maintain ADL and independ-
ence. - Cold and heat therapy for pain relief, anti-inflammatory effect, to help mus-
cles and joints. - Splints to maintain joints in positions that are most used.
- Exercises to maintain flexibility and ROM (range of motion).
NURSING DIAGNOSES
- Chronic pain
- Activity intolerance
- Disturbed body image
NURSING INTERVENTION
- Assist patient in placing a splint on affected joint.
- Weight loss to place less stress on joints.
- Explain to the patient:
- Get a full night’s sleep.
- Avoid the cold.
- Reduce stress.
Scleroderma
WHAT WENT WRONG?
Antibodies attack connective tissues in an autoimmune response. This results in
scar tissue (fibrosis) forming on skin, organs, GI tract, blood vessels, and muscles,
causing systemic sclerosis.
It is a chronic disease of unknown etiology, usually seen in 30-to-50-year-olds.
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