Rheumatoid arthritis 

(RA) is a chronic, systemic inflammatory disorder that may affect many

tissues and organs, but principally attacks synovial joints. The process produces an inflammatory

response of the synovium (synovitis) secondary to hyperplasia of synovial cells, excess synovial

fluid, and the development of pannus in the synovium. The pathology of the disease process

often leads to the destruction of articular cartilage and ankylosis of the joints. Rheumatoid

arthritis can also produce diffuse inflammation in the lungs, pericardium, pleura, and sclera, and

also nodular lesions, most common in subcutaneous tissue. Although the cause of rheumatoid

arthritis is unknown, autoimmunity plays a pivotal role in chronicity and progression, and RA is

considered a systemic autoimmune disease.

General Objectives

This study aimed to determine the alternative and most effective home management

practices for rheumatism. As a member of the health care provider aims to provide health

teaching to manage this chronic illness effectively.

Specific Objectives

At the end of ten days of intensive care affiliation the student nurse will be able to:

Assess the client and the complication of the disease.

Teach to accept the findings as an awareness to promote Healthy lifestyle and Safety

living condition.
 Teach the client how to manage on her own condition especially at home management.

Gain and widen knowledge about the entire disease process formulate appropriate plan of

care for the major.

CASE DISCUSSION/PRESENTATION

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY

Presentation of
antigen to T cells

T- and B-cell
proliferation. Swelling in small joints,
Angiogenesis in associated with pain,
synovial lining stiffness and fatigue.

Neutophil
Warm, swollen, effusion,
accumulation in
pain, and decreased motion
synovial fluid. Cell
with possible rheumatoid
proliferation. No
nodules.
cartilage invasion

Synovitis. Early
pannus invasion.
Chondrocyte
Increase in severity of
activation.
physical sign and
Degradation of
symptoms.
cartilage by
proteinase.