The nurse in an ambulatory care clinic is admitting a 27-year-old client with severe systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In assessing the client’s health history, the nurse knows to question which of the following statements?
SLE is a chronic autoimmune disorder treated with a variety of medications. One such drug is an antimalarial drug that produces retinal toxicity. Eye exams every six months, rather than annually, are advised to monitor ocular changes. Avoidance of sunlight prevents the skin rash that occurs with SLE. Also, sensitivity to light is seen in persons with lupus. High-dose prednisone, commonly prescribed with severe SLE, will result in water retention and the appearance of being bloated. Due to fatigue, the work schedule is limited for persons with lupus.
