As an acute episode of rheumatoid arthritis subsides, active and passive range-of-motion exercises are taught to the client's spouse. the nurse should teach that direct pressure should not be applied to the client's joints, because this may precipitate what?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the immune system attacks the body's tissues. In this case the nurse should teach that direct pressure should not be applied to the clients's joints because this may precipitate pain. This is because palpation will elicit tenderness because pressure stimulates nerve endings causing pain.