Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) and Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Nursing Considerations

What nursing considerations should be included when a child with JIA is started on an NSAID?

1. What are the potential side effects of NSAIDs in children with JIA?

Potential side effects of NSAIDs in children with JIA:

- Gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeds

- Increased risk of heart attack

- Kidney disease

When a child with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is started on a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), it is important for nurses to consider the potential side effects of these medications. NSAIDs, which include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, are commonly used to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

However, long-term usage of NSAIDs can lead to adverse effects such as gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeds, an increased risk of heart attack, and kidney disease in children with JIA. Therefore, nurses should closely monitor the child for signs of gastrointestinal distress, changes in blood pressure, and renal function.

It is crucial to educate patients and their families about the correct usage of NSAIDs, the importance of following prescribed dosages, and the need to report any unusual symptoms. Since NSAIDs can interfere with blood clotting, regular assessments of the patient's hematological status are necessary.

NSAIDs work by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins, which play a role in inflammation and pain. However, prostaglandins also have protective effects in the gastrointestinal tract and are involved in blood clotting and kidney function.