4 Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Nursing Care Plans

Aug 8, 2017

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes a systemic inflammatory response in various parts of the body. The cause of SLE is unknown, but genetics and hormonal and environmental factors are involved. Under normal circumstances, the body’s immune system produces antibodies against invading disease antigens to protect itself. In individuals with SLE the body loses its ability to discriminate between antigens and its own cells and tissues. It produces antibodies against itself, called autoantibodies, and these antibodies react with the antigens and result in the development of immune complexes. Immune complexes proliferate in the tissues of the client with SLE and result in inflammation, tissue damage, and pain. Mild disease can affect joints and skin. More severe disease can affect kidneys, heart, lung, blood vessels, central nervous system, joints, and skin.

There are three type of lupus. The discoid type is limited to the skin and only rarely involves other organs. Systemic lupus is more common and usually more severe than discoid; it can affect any organ system in the body. With systemic lupus there may be periods of remission and flares. The third type of lupus is drug induced. The drugs most commonly implicated in precipitating this condition are hydralazine (Apresoline), procainamide (Pronestyl), isoniazid (INH), chlorpromazine (Thorazine), d-penicillamine, and some anti-seizure medications. Symptoms usually do not present until after months or years of continued administration. The symptoms are usually abolished when the drugs are discontinued.

Nursing Care Plans

Nursing goals of a client will systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may include relief of pain and discomfort, relief of fatigue, maintenance of skin integrity, compliance with the prescribed medications, and increased knowledge regarding the disease, and absence of complications.

Here are four (4) nursing care plans (NCP) for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE):

Impaired Skin Integrity

Impaired Skin Integrity: Altered epidermis and/or dermis [The integumentary system is the largest multifunctional organ of the body.

May be related to

Exacerbation of disease process
High-dose corticosteroid use
Inflammation
Use of immunosuppressant drugs
Vasoconstriction

Possibly evidenced by

Diffuse areas of hair loss
Itching
Loss of discrete patches of scalp hair
Oral and nasal ulcer
Pain and tenderness
Redness
Scalp hair loss possibly accompanied by lesions, scarring, or dry, scaling skin tissue
Skin breakdown
Skin rash

Desired Outcomes

Client will verbalize ability to cope with hair loss.
Client will identify measures to cover scalp loss as required by personal preference.
Client will maintain optimal skin integrity, as evidenced by an absence of rashes and skin lesions.

Nursing Interventions	Rationale
Assess the skin for integrity.	Small lesions may develop on the oral and nasal mucous membranes. Disclike lesions that appear as a dense maculopapular rash may occur on the client’s face or chest.
Assess the client’s description of pain.	Gathering information about pain can guide treatment. Each client may exhibit slightly different presentations.
Assess for an erythematous rash, which may be present on the face, neck, or extremities.	The classic “butterfly” rash may appear across the bridge of the nose and on the cheeks and is characteristically displayed in the configuration of a butterfly. This is evident in about 50% of clients.
Assess for photosensitivity.	Clients may respond violently to ultraviolet light or to sunlight. Disease flares or outbreaks of severe rash may occur in response to exposure.
Assess the degree to which symptoms interfere with the client’s lifestyle and body image.	A broad range of behaviors is associated with body image changes, ranging from totally ignoring the change to a preoccupation with it.
Encourage adequate nutrition and hydration.	These measures promote healthy skin and healing in the presence of wounds.
Instruct the client to clean, dry, and moisturize intact skin; use warm (not hot) water, especially over bony prominences; use unscented lotion. Use a mild shampoo.	Scented lotions may contain alcohol, which dries the skin. Prescribed solutions reduce dryness of the scalp and maintain skin integrity.
Instruct the client to avoid contact with harsh chemicals and to wear appropriate protective gloves, as needed. Avoid hair dye, permanent solution, and curl relaxers.	Chemicals aggravate this condition.
Recommended prophylactic pressure-relieving devices (e.g., special mattress, elbow pads).	Such devices aid in the prevention of skin breakdown.
*For skin rash:*
Wear protective eyewear. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and carry an umbrella. Wear maximum protection sunscreen (SPF 15 or above) in the sun. Sunbathing is contraindicated. Avoid ultraviolet ray.	The sun can exacerbate a skin rash or precipitate a disease flare. Special lotions, glasses, and other items may be required to protect the skin from sunlight exposure.
Inform the client of the availability of special makeup (at large department stores) to cover rashes, especially facial rashes.	These preparations are specially formulated to completely cover rashes, birthmarks, and darkly pigmented areas. This will help the client who is having problems adjusting to body image changes.
Introduce or reinforce information about the use of hydroxychloroquine.	This antimalarial drug is a slow-acting medicine used to relieve or reduce inflammation and rash. It may take 8 to 12 weeks for effect. A potential side effect is retinal toxicity. The client must follow up with an ophthalmologist every 6 months. Topical cortisone medication may likewise be used.
For oral ulcers:
Instruct the client to avoid spicy or citrusy foods.	These foods might irritate fissures or ulcers in the mucous membranes.
Instruct the client to rinse the mouth with half-strength hydrogen peroxide three times per day.	Hydrogen peroxide helps keep oral ulcers clean.
Instruct the client to keep ulcerated skin clean and dry. Apply dressings as needed.	Skin is necessary to prevent infection and promote healing.
Instruct the client to apply topical ointments as prescribed.	Vitamin A and E may be useful in maintaining skin health.
For hair loss:
Instruct the client that scalp hair loss occurs during exacerbation of disease activity.	Scalp hair loss may be the first sign of impending disease exacerbation. Scalp hair loss may not be permanent. As disease activity subsides, scalp hair begins to regrow.
Instruct the client that scalp hair loss may be caused by high-dose corticosteroids (prednisone) and immunosuppressant drugs.	Hair will regrow as the dose decreases.
Encourage the client to investigate ways (e.g., scarves, hats, wigs) to conceal hair loss.	Hair loss may interfere with lifestyle and self-image.