Which experience is often noted in clients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) during symptom flare-ups?

Clients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) often experience increased susceptibility to infection during symptom flare-ups due to several interconnected factors. SLE is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. As the disease activity increases during flare-ups, not only is the immune system involved in attacking these tissues, but it may also become dysregulated.

This dysregulation can lead to a decreased ability to fend off infections. Additionally, many individuals with SLE are treated with immunosuppressive therapies to manage their symptoms, which can further compromise their immune response. Therefore, when clients experience a flare-up of symptoms, they are at a heightened risk for infections, making this the correct choice.

In contrast, other experiences such as heightened physical endurance or improvement in energy levels would not typically be observed during flare-ups, as the disease usually causes fatigue and a general decline in physical ability. Prolonged episodes of stability are less common during flare-ups, as these periods are characterized by symptoms and systemic involvement.