Which clinical finding indicates George with rheumatic fever needs to continue taking salicylates?

The correct choice is polyarthritis. In the context of rheumatic fever, polyarthritis is one of the prominent clinical manifestations that indicates ongoing inflammation and the need for continued treatment with salicylates. Salicylates, which are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and prevent the progression of rheumatic fever-related complications.

Polyarthritis involves the inflammation of multiple joints, which can lead to significant discomfort and may affect a patient's mobility and overall well-being. The persistent symptoms of polyarthritis suggest that the inflammatory process is still active, reinforcing the need to maintain anti-inflammatory therapy to control these symptoms and mitigate further joint damage.

Chorea, subcutaneous nodules, and erythema marginatum are also associated with rheumatic fever but may not necessarily indicate the need for ongoing salicylate therapy in the same way that polyarthritis does. For instance, while chorea can be distressing and warrant management, it might not require the same acute inflammatory treatment as polyarthritis. Similarly, subcutaneous nodules are often asymptomatic and typically resolve on their own without aggressive treatment. Erythema marginatum is a distinctive rash that represents the body's response but does not indicate current joint inflammation that would