Immune System Quizlet Related

Review Immune System Quizlet related questions and content

The nurse is caring for a patient being tested for rheumatoid arthritis. In reviewing laboratory values, which should the nurse recognize as being diagnostic of rheumatoid arthritis?

  • A. C-reactive protein = 12 mg/L
  • B. Rheumatoid factor is negative.
  • C. White blood cells = 6000/mm3
  • D. Antinuclear antibody test is negative.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because an elevated C-reactive protein level indicates inflammation, which is a key feature of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid factor (choice B) is positive in only 70-80% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, so a negative result does not rule out the disease. White blood cell count (choice C) and antinuclear antibody test (choice D) are not specific to rheumatoid arthritis. In summary, an elevated C-reactive protein level is a more reliable indicator of the disease compared to the other options provided.