Orthopaedic Nurses Certification Board (ONCB) Metabolic/Inflammatory/Tumors Practice Exam

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that primarily affects the joints, but it can also have several systemic effects that extend beyond the musculoskeletal system. The correct answer highlights these systemic manifestations, which include fatigue, fever, malaise, and the potential for organ involvement.

Fatigue is often reported by individuals with RA due to the chronic inflammatory processes that consume metabolic energy. Fever may occur during flare-ups as a response to systemic inflammation. Malaise, or a general feeling of discomfort or unease, is common in chronic inflammatory diseases. Furthermore, RA can lead to complications affecting various organs due to systemic inflammation. For instance, rheumatoid arthritis can result in complications in the heart (such as pericarditis or increased cardiovascular risks), lungs (like pleuritis or interstitial lung disease), and eyes (leading to conditions such as scleritis).

This comprehensive view underscores the fact that RA is not merely a local joint disease but has significant systemic implications affecting overall health and quality of life. Other potential answers do not accurately encompass the broad range of systemic effects associated with rheumatoid arthritis.