Systematic lupus erythematosus(SLE)
Description
Chronic,progressive,systemic inflammatory disease that can cause major organs and systems to fail
Connective tissue and fibrin deposits collect in blood vessels on collagen fibers and on organs.
The deposits leas to necrosis and inflammation in blood vessels,lymph nodes,gastrointestinal tract, and pleura.
No cure for the disease is known but remisions are frequently experienced by clients who manage their care well
Causes
The cause of SLE is unknown, but is believed to be a defect in immunological mechanisms, with genetic origin.
Precipitating factors include medications, stress, genetic factors, sunlight or ultraviolet light, and pregnancy.
Discoid lupus erythematosus is possible with some medications but totally disappears after the medications is stopped; the only manifestation is the skin rash that occurs in lupus.
Assessment
Assess for precipitating factors.
Erythema of the face (malar rash;also called a butterfly rash)
Dry,sxaly,raises rash on the face or upper body
Fever
weakness,malaise, and fatigue
Anorexia
Weight loss
Photosensitivity
Joint pain
Erythema of the palms
Anemia
Positive anti-nuclear antibody(ANA) test and lupus erythematosus (LE) preparation.
Elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate(ESR) and C -reactive protein level.
Interventions
Monitor skin integrity and provide frequent oral care.
Instruct the client to clean the skin with a mild soap,avoiding harsh and perfumed substances.
Assist with the use of ointments and creams for the rash as prescribed.
Identify factors contributing to fatigue.
Administer iron, folic acid, or vitamin supplements as prescribed if anemia occurs.
Provide a high-vitamin and high-iron diet.
Provide a high-protein diet if there is no evidence of kidney disease.
Instruct in measures to conserve energy, such as pacing activities and balancing rest with exercise.
Administer topical or systemic corticosteroids, slaicylates, snd nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs as prescribed for pain and inflammation.
Administer medications to decrease the inflammatory response as prescribed.
Monitory intake and output, as well as daily weight for signs of fuid overload if corticosteroids are used.
Instruct the client to avoid exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet litht.
Monitory for bruising, bleeding, and injury.
Assist with plasmapheresis as prescribed to remove autoantibodies and immune complexes from the blood before organ damage ocurs.
Monitor for signs of organ involvement such as pleuritis, nephritis, pericarditis, coronary artery disease, hypertension neuritis, anemia, and peritonitis.
Note that lupus nephritis occurs early in the disease process.
Provide supportive therapy as major organs become affected.
Provide emotional support and encourage the client to verbalize feelings.
Provide information regarding support groups and encourage the use of community resources
For the client with SLE, monitor the blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels frequently for signs of renal impairment.
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