Improving Knowledge on Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Nursing Session
The pediatric nurse educator provides a teaching session to the nursing staff regarding juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). In this session, various statements were discussed to enhance the staff's understanding of JIA. Let's evaluate their knowledge by looking at the following statements made by the nursing staff members:
Which statement by a nursing staff member indicates a need for further education?
A. "A complication of JIA is iridocyclitis."
B. "JIA most often occurs before the age of 16."
C. "JIA is twice as likely to occur in boys than in girls."
D. "Clinical manifestations of JIA include morning stiffness and painful, stiff, swollen joints."
Final answer:
The incorrect statement that Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is more common in boys indicates a need for further education; JIA is more common in girls.
Explanation:
The statement by a nursing staff member that indicates a need for further education regarding juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is: "JIA is twice as likely to occur in boys than in girls." Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is more commonly diagnosed in girls than in boys, and it usually manifests before the age of 16. It is crucial that nursing staff understand the epidemiology of JIA to provide the best care possible. Complications of JIA can indeed include iridocyclitis, and symptoms often involve stiff, swollen joints, and morning stiffness, which aligns with the presentations of other inflammatory autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
How can nurses improve their knowledge and understanding of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) to provide better care for pediatric patients?
Nurses can enhance their knowledge of JIA by participating in continuing education programs, attending workshops or seminars focused on rheumatic diseases, and staying updated on the latest research and guidelines related to JIA management. Collaborating with rheumatologists and other healthcare professionals specialized in JIA care can also provide valuable insights and support in caring for pediatric patients with JIA.