A 38-year-old female has been on corticosteroids for several months to manage severe asthma exacerbations. The patient reports weight gain, feeling anxious, experiencing insomnia, and noticing increased facial hair growth. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for these symptoms?
Cushing's syndrome
Adrenal insufficiency
Diabetes mellitus
Dystonia
The Correct Answer is A
A. Cushing's syndrome: Prolonged use of corticosteroids can lead to iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome. Common features include weight gain (especially central), mood changes such as anxiety or irritability, insomnia, and physical changes like hirsutism (increased facial hair), moon face, and truncal obesity due to chronic hypercortisolism.
B. Adrenal insufficiency: This condition typically results from abrupt withdrawal of corticosteroids, leading to fatigue, hypotension, and electrolyte imbalances. It does not cause the excess cortisol-related symptoms described in this patient’s presentation.
C. Diabetes mellitus: While corticosteroids can raise blood glucose levels and increase the risk for diabetes, the described symptoms—particularly the weight distribution and hirsutism—are more indicative of Cushing’s syndrome than diabetes.
D. Dystonia: Dystonia involves involuntary muscle contractions causing repetitive movements or abnormal postures. It is not associated with the metabolic and hormonal effects caused by long-term corticosteroid use.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D","E","F"]
Explanation
A. Right Pharmacy: While it is important for medications to be obtained from a reliable pharmacy, "Right Pharmacy" is not one of the 10 rights of medication administration. The focus is on ensuring the correct administration process by the nurse or healthcare provider.
B. Right Medication: This is one of the core rights and ensures that the patient receives the exact medication that was prescribed. Verification is essential to avoid medication errors and adverse drug events.
C. Right Physician: Although having accurate prescriptions from a qualified provider is essential, "Right Physician" is not part of the 10 rights. The emphasis is on correct administration to the patient, not the prescriber’s identity.
D. Right Time: Administering medication at the correct time is critical for maintaining therapeutic drug levels, preventing underdosing or overdosing, and optimizing effectiveness especially for time-sensitive medications like insulin or antibiotics.
E. Right Route: Ensuring the medication is given via the prescribed route (oral, IV, subcutaneous, etc.) is vital for proper absorption, action, and safety. Errors in route can lead to severe complications or therapeutic failure.
F. Right Dose: Administering the correct dose is fundamental to achieving the desired therapeutic effect and avoiding toxicity or subtherapeutic dosing. Dosage must always match what is prescribed and appropriate for the patient's age, weight, and condition.
Correct Answer is ["2"]
Explanation
Desired dose = 160 mg
The medication label for Bevyxxa (betrixaban) Capsules states: 80 mg per capsule.
- Determine the number of capsules needed:
Number of capsules = Desired dose / Dose per capsule
= 160 mg / 80 mg/capsule
= 2 capsules
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