The nurse is assessing a patient for risk factors of chronic fatigue syndrome. Which factors should the nurse identify as placing the patient at risk for chronic fatigue syndrome? (Select all that apply.)

Question

a. Feeling tired upon awakening
b. Chronic migraines
c. Tenderness under the jaw
d. 5 episodes tonsillitis/past year
e. Swollen, painful knees

Answer 1

ANS: A, C, D, E
The individual has severe chronic fatigue for 6 or more consecutive months that is not due to ongoing exertion or other medical conditions associated with fatigue (these other conditions need to be ruled out by a doctor after diagnostic tests have been conducted). The fatigue significantly interferes with daily activities and work. The individual concurrently has four or more of the following eight symptoms:
• Post exertion malaise lasting more than 24 hours
• Unrefreshing sleep
• Significant impairment of short-term memory or concentration
• Muscle pain
• Multi-joint pain without swelling or redness
• Headaches of a new type, pattern, or severity
• Tender cervical or axillary lymph nodes
• Frequent or recurring sore throat