Arthritis Flare-Up Emergency Action Plan

When to Activate This Plan

Implement this plan when experiencing:

• Sudden increase in joint pain (8-10/10 on pain scale)
• Severe swelling or redness
• Significant loss of joint mobility
• Fever with joint symptoms

Immediate Actions

1. Pain Management

• Take prescribed breakthrough medication as directed
• Apply ice/heat therapy (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off)
• Rest affected joints in neutral position

2. Contact Healthcare Team If:

• Pain persists >2 hours after medication
• Temperature exceeds 101.5°F (38.6°C)
• Joint appears severely swollen or red
• Unable to move joint

Emergency Contact Information

Complete these fields with your healthcare providers:

Rheumatologist/Orthopedist: _________________ Phone: _________________

Primary Care Physician: _________________ Phone: _________________

Emergency Contact: _________________ Phone: _________________

Medication Information

Current Arthritis Medications

1. Regular medications:

   • Name: _________________ Dose: _________________
   • Name: _________________ Dose: _________________

2. Emergency/breakthrough medications:

   • Name: _________________ Dose: _________________ Maximum daily dose: _________________

When to Seek Emergency Care

Call 911 or Go to ER if:

• Severe joint pain with fever >102°F (38.9°C)
• Signs of infection (extreme redness, warmth, drainage)
• Chest pain or difficulty breathing
• Sudden inability to bear weight

Prevention Planning

• Keep medication supply current
• Maintain activity log
• Track potential triggers
• Schedule regular check-ups

Documentation

Record each flare-up:

• Date/time of onset
• Symptoms
• Actions taken
• Effectiveness of interventions