Upper extremities arthritis

Any type of arthritis may involve any of the shoulder girdle joints. The sternoclavicular joint is most commonly affected. Osteoarthritis of the glenohumeral joint is less common than in some of the other upper extremity joints. 

For the physical assessment, the nurse generally appraises the patient s physical condition and limitations. If the patient has arthritis (any type), the nurse examines the affected joints in the extremities for appearance of the skin over the joint, evidence of joint deformity, and mobility of the affected joint. Fhtients with osteoporosis are assessed for pain particularly in the upper and lower back or hip. Vital signs and weight are taken to provide a baseline for comparison during therapy. If the patient has gout, the nurse examines the affected joints and notes the appearance of the skin over the joints and any joint enlargement. 

Miscellaneous Anxiety depression dizziness headache rash abdominal pain/discomfort gingival disorder infectious diarrhea nausea rectal pain/discomfort tooth disorder vomiting arthritis back pain myalgia lower extremity pain menstrual irregularity vaginitis influenza upper/lower respiratory tract infection fatigue otitis sleep disorder urinary tract infection. 

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