A 37-year-old male had swelling and pain in the finger joints of both hands 2 years ago, which resolved with symptomatic treatment. Although arthralgia persisted, he continued working without systematic examination or treatment. Two months ago, he developed fever (~38°C), fatigue, and gradually progressing shortness of breath with minimal cough. Examination reveals: spindle-shaped swelling of the proximal interphalangeal joints of both middle fingers, slightly impaired function of both wrists with tenderness, inability to fully extend the right elbow joint, a 1cm×1cm subcutaneous nodule on the extensor surface, chest X-ray shows moderate pleural effusion on the right side and small pleural effusion on the left side with increased pulmonary markings. ESR 56mm/1st hour, elevated CRP, and high-titer positive RF. What is the preferred treatment for this patient?