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

For a patient diagnosed with polymyositis, which education aspect is vital to prevent complications?

1. Skin protection strategies

2. Good sleep practices

3. Aspiration precautions

4. Balance of rest and activity

The correct answer is: Aspiration precautions

In the context of polymyositis, an important focus of patient education is the management of muscle weakness and the risk of aspiration. Polymyositis is characterized by inflammation of the muscle tissue, leading to significant muscle weakness, which may affect not only extremities but also respiratory muscles. When the muscles responsible for swallowing are weakened, patients are at a higher risk of aspiration, which can lead to serious complications like pneumonia. Educating patients about aspiration precautions is crucial. This includes guidance on eating and drinking safely, such as taking smaller bites, chewing thoroughly, and ensuring they are seated upright while eating. Understanding how to recognize signs of aspiration can also empower patients to seek immediate help if they encounter problems. The other options might have relevance in a broader health management context but do not directly address the specific challenges posed by muscle weakness and the risk of aspiration that presents in cases of polymyositis. Skin protection strategies and good sleep practices are certainly important for overall health, while an appropriate balance of rest and activity is beneficial for managing fatigue. However, these factors do not significantly mitigate the immediate risks associated with compromised swallowing functions.