Purpose:  To accurately distinguish the basic assessment similarities and differences between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Course Outcomes:  This assignment contributes to the following course outcomes:

1. Explain expected client behaviors while differentiating between normal findings, variations, and abnormalities.
2. Utilize prior knowledge of theories and principles of nursing and related disciplines to integrate clinical judgement in professional decision-making and implementation of nursing process while obtaining a physical assessment.
3. Demonstrate beginning skill in performing a complete physical examination, using the techniques of inspection, palpation, percussion, and auscultation.

Due Date:  Refer to course calendar for details.  The late assignment policy applies to this assignment.

Total Points Possible:  25 Points

Requirements:  Computer with internet access

Course Text Book (Jarvis)

Supplemental information, e.g., elibrary access for research

Preparing the Assignment:  Research and review the presenting signs and symptoms of a patient with Osteoarthritis and a patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Directions and Assignment Criteria: 

Actual points earned are based on submission of accurate, complete information which compares and contrasts the assessment findings of Rheumatoid and Osteo arthritis.

Objective:

1. COMPARE:  Describe at least three (3) signs/symptoms of Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis which are alike.  For example, in the integumentary system, pigmented lesions were alike in that they had a color change from the underlying skin color.

Point value:  3 points each for a total of 9 Points

2. CONTRAST: Explain at least four (4) signs/symptoms of Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis which vary between the diseases.   For example, in the integumentary system, benign lesions had a uniform color but malignant lesions had more than one color.

Point value:  2 points each for a total of 16 Points

Remember:  The point of this assignment is to be able to distinguish, based on signs and symptoms, the difference between the two disorders.