1. The client/caregiver can define systemic lupus erythematosus (SLP).
   1. With SLP, the body’s immune system does not function as it should. It produces antibodies that
      fight against the body’s healthy cells and tissue.
   2. It is a chronic disorder with exacerbations and remissions.
   3. It is an inflammatory disorder that causes structural changes in connective tissue, affecting the
      skin, joints, muscles, and other organs.
   4. Symptoms may range from mild to severe.
   5. Symptoms may vary during the course of the disease.
2. The client/caregiver can list signs and symptoms.
   1. Painful or swollen joints and muscle pain
   2. Unexplained fever
   3. Red rashes, most commonly on the face (butterfly rash over nose and checks)
   4. Chest pain upon deep breathing
   5. Unusual loss of hair
   6. Pale or purple fingers or toes from cold or stress
   7. Sensitivity to the sun
   8. Swelling in legs/ankles or around eyes
   9. Mouth ulcers
   10. Swollen glands
   11. Extreme fatigue
   12. Headache
3. The client/caregiver can list body systems that can be affected by lupus.
   1. Kidneys—inflammation and renal disease
   2. Lungs—pleuritis and pneumonia
   3. Central nervous system—dizziness, vision problems, memory and personality changes, seizure, or
      stroke
   4. Blood vessels—mild to severe vasculitis
   5. Blood—anemia, leukopenia (decreased white blood cells), or increased risk for blood clots
   6. Heart—inflammation of the heart and surrounding membrane or increased risk for atherosclerosis
4. The client/caregiver can list measures to manage this disease.
   1. Take medications as ordered.
   2. Be alert to specific medication treatments. Have education about the use of corticosteroids, and
      follow physician instructions for dosage and discontinuation.
   3. Plan regular exercise and rest. Pace activities to allow for rest.
   4. Avoid sunlight or ultraviolet radiation. Never use tanning booths. When outdoors, use sunscreen and
      wear clothing to protect arms, legs, and face.
   5. Eat a diet high in protein, vitamins, and iron to prevent anemia.
   6. Maintain adequate fluid intake.
   7. Avoid crowds or people with known infections.
   8. Provide meticulous mouth care.
   9. Apply hot packs or cold packs to lessen pain and stiffness.
   10. Bathe in cool water to decrease itchiness and rash.
   11. Keep follow-up appointments with the physician. Report any signs of flare-up promptly.
   12. Wear a Medic Alert bracelet.
   13. Use any adaptive equipment to maintain activities of daily living, such as cooking or dressing.
   14. For a fever over 100 degrees, call your doctor.

Resources

Local lupus support groups
S.L.E. Lupus Foundation
www.lupusny.org/

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Information Clearinghouse NIAMS/National
Institutes of Health
www.niams.nih.gov/

American College of Rheumatology/Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals
www.rheumatology.org

Arthritis Foundation
www.arthritis.org

References

Ackley, B. J., & Ladwig, G. B. (2006). Nursing diagnosis handbook: A guide to planning care. Philadelphia: Mosby Inc.
Cohen, B. J., & Taylor, J. J. (2005). Memmler’s the human body in health and disease (10th ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Hitchcock, J. E., Schubert, P. E., & Thomas, S. A. (2003). Community health nursing: Caring in action. Clifton Park, NY:Thomson Delmar Learning.
Lutz, C., & Przytulski, K. (2001). Nutrition and diet therapy. Philadelphia: F. A. Davis Company.
Nutrition made incredibly easy. (2003). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Timby, B. K., & Smith, N. C. (2003). Introductory medical-surgical nursing (8th ed.). Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Credits

Client Teaching Guides for Home Health Care, 2nd ed.
© 2008 Jones and Bartlett Publishers, Inc.
www.jbpub.com