Choose one multisystem dysfunction. Describe pathophysiological changes, abnormal findings, and symptoms of the chosen dysfunction. How does it affect the patient’s activities of daily living?
Initial discussion question posts should be a minimum of 200 words and include at least two references cited using APA format. Responses to peers or faculty should be 100-150 words and include one reference. Refer to “RN-BSN Discussion Question Rubric” and “RN-BSN Participation Rubric,” located in Class Resources, to understand the expectations for initial discussion question posts and participation posts, respectively.
One multisystem dysfunction that can significantly impact a patient’s activities of daily living is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). SLE is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by the production of autoantibodies against self-antigens, leading to inflammation and tissue damage in multiple organs and systems of the body.
Pathophysiological changes in SLE involve dysregulation of the immune system, resulting in the production of autoantibodies targeting various tissues and organs. This dysregulation leads to inflammation and tissue damage in multiple systems, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, and central nervous system. Immune complexes deposit in tissues, triggering inflammatory responses that contribute to organ damage and dysfunction.
Abnormal findings in SLE can include:
- Skin manifestations: Butterfly rash across the cheeks and nose, discoid rash, photosensitivity.
- Joint involvement: Arthritis with swelling, tenderness, and pain, often affecting small joints symmetrically.
- Renal involvement: Proteinuria, hematuria, and renal impairment due to immune complex deposition in the kidneys.
- Cardiovascular manifestations: Pericarditis, myocarditis, and accelerated atherosclerosis, leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular events.
- Pulmonary complications: Pleuritis, pleural effusions, and interstitial lung disease.
- Neurological symptoms: Cognitive dysfunction, seizures, headaches, and peripheral neuropathy.
Symptoms of SLE can vary widely among patients and may include fatigue, fever, weight loss, and malaise, along with specific organ-related symptoms mentioned above.
The impact of SLE on a patient’s activities of daily living can be profound. Fatigue and pain associated with arthritis can limit mobility and hinder the ability to perform tasks requiring manual dexterity. Skin involvement may lead to self-consciousness and avoidance of social situations due to visible rashes. Renal impairment can necessitate dietary restrictions and frequent medical appointments. Additionally, the unpredictable nature of SLE flares and the need for ongoing management with medications such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants can disrupt daily routines and affect quality of life.
References:
- Gladman, D. D., Ibañez, D., Urowitz, M. B., & Fortin, P. R. (2002). Systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index 2000. The Journal of Rheumatology, 29(2), 288-291.
- Rahman, A., & Isenberg, D. A. (2008). Systemic lupus erythematosus. New England Journal of Medicine, 358(9), 929-939.