NBCSN Nationally Certified School Nurse Practice Exam

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA), now often referred to as juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), is indeed most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 2 to 5 years. This age range corresponds with a period in child development when the immune system is maturing, but also when children are becoming more active and may show signs of joint pain or swelling. Diagnosing JIA in this age group is crucial because early intervention can significantly improve long-term outcomes. Symptoms may include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling that can interrupt normal activities and growth. It's essential for healthcare providers, including school nurses, to recognize these signs early on to facilitate diagnosis and management. The other age ranges mentioned tend to have lower incidence rates for the initial diagnosis of JIA, aligning with a decrease in the prevalence of inflammatory conditions as children age. In particular, while juvenile arthritis can manifest later, such as in adolescence, the peak onset tends to be in the ages of 2 to 5. This information is vital for school nurses when assessing students presenting with joint complaints or related symptoms.