Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 88%
Simulated
A nurse is assessing a client who has a new diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes. This is a hallmark symptom of rheumatoid arthritis due to inflammation in the joints. It typically lasts longer than with osteoarthritis. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Unilateral joint pain is more indicative of other conditions like gout. Fever is not a typical symptom of rheumatoid arthritis unless there is an infection present. Bradycardia is not associated with rheumatoid arthritis.