Atención de enfermería en pacientes con artritis reumatoide

Abstract

Introduction and justification. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease of unknown etiology that causes damage to the joints causing symptoms such as joint destruction, pain and swelling. It affects the 0.5% of the Spanish population and its onset is more likely between 40-60 years, especially in women. Objective. To know the role of nursing in the approach to arthritis rheumatoid and the impact of the disease in affected people. Method. The literature review has been carried out in electronic databases, repositories, resources based on scientific evidence, catalogues, journals and web pages for associations of both patients and professionals. Development. Taking into account that this disease don´t have cure, it is essential to act on the modifiable risk factors, symptoms and try to prevent complications. Also, the nurse should carry out group educational interventions that contribute to promoting the correct management of the disease. Conclusions. The only widely studied and recognized risk factor is tobacco. The nursing intervention is necessary in primary, secondary and tertiary prevention. The studies reviewed about quality of life agree that the physical function is the most affected.