Answered

The nurse is assessing a client who presents for a follow-up visit since being diagnosed with thick lupus erythematosus (SLE) 6 months ago.
Which complicationrelated findings would be immediately reported to the primary health care provider?
• Fatigue
• Proteinuria
• 2+ pedal edema
• 10kg weight gain
• Facial rash



Answer :

In a client with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), certain findings indicate potential complications that require immediate reporting to the primary health care provider:

1. Proteinuria: This is a sign of kidney involvement, which is common in SLE and can indicate lupus nephritis, a serious complication.

 

2. 2+ pedal edema: This indicates significant swelling in the feet, which could suggest fluid retention and possibly renal impairment or heart involvement.

3. 10kg weight gain: This rapid weight gain could indicate fluid retention, which is concerning in the context of kidney or heart involvement.

These findings are indicative of potential worsening of the disease or development of complications such as renal impairment or cardiac issues, which are common in SLE. Therefore, they should be immediately reported to the primary health care provider for further evaluation and management.

While fatigue and facial rash are also symptoms of SLE, they are not typically acute complications that require immediate reporting unless they are severe or significantly affecting the client's health status. However, the other listed findings (proteinuria, pedal edema, and significant weight gain) are more urgent and require prompt attention.