A client diagnosed with Addison's disease is being treated with prednisone. The nurse must educate the patient about which of the following side effects of prednisone? Select all that apply.
Increase risk for infection
Hypotension
Hypoglycemia
Hypertension
Hyperglycemia
Correct Answer : A,D,E
Choice A reason:
Prednisone, a corticosteroid, can suppress the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections. This immunosuppressive effect is a significant concern, especially for patients with chronic conditions or those on long-term steroid therapy. Educating patients about the increased risk of infection is crucial for monitoring and preventing potential complications.
Choice B reason:
Hypotension is not typically a side effect of prednisone. In fact, prednisone can lead to fluid retention and increased blood pressure (hypertension), rather than decreased blood pressure. Therefore, educating the patient about hypotension is not necessary in the context of prednisone therapy.
Choice C reason:
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is not a common side effect of prednisone. On the contrary, prednisone can increase blood glucose levels, potentially leading to hyperglycemia. Patients with diabetes or those at risk for hyperglycemia need to be monitored and educated about this effect, rather than hypoglycemia.
Choice D reason:
Hypertension is a known side effect of prednisone due to its sodium-retaining and potassium-losing properties. This can lead to an increase in blood pressure, which is especially concerning for patients with cardiovascular conditions. Educating patients about the risk of hypertension helps in monitoring and managing this side effect.
Choice E reason:
Hyperglycemia is a common side effect of prednisone, especially in patients with diabetes or those predisposed to high blood sugar levels. Corticosteroids can increase glucose production and decrease insulin sensitivity, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. Patients should be informed about this risk and advised to monitor their blood sugar regularly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Diarrhea is not typically associated with the abrupt discontinuation of TPN. TPN involves intravenous administration of nutrients, and while gastrointestinal side effects can occur when starting or stopping TPN, diarrhea is more commonly linked to enteral nutrition or oral intake changes rather than TPN.
Choice B reason:
Hyperglycemia is more likely to occur when TPN is initiated or if the infusion rate is too high. When TPN is abruptly stopped, the sudden cessation of dextrose infusion can lead to a rapid drop in blood glucose levels, resulting in hypoglycemia rather than hyperglycemia. Therefore, hyperglycemia is not the correct condition associated with the abrupt discontinuation of TPN.
Choice C reason:
Hypoglycemia can occur if TPN is abruptly stopped due to the sudden loss of continuous glucose infusion. TPN solutions often contain dextrose to provide a steady supply of glucose. Abrupt cessation can cause a rapid decrease in blood glucose levels, leading to hypoglycemia. This condition requires monitoring and gradual tapering of TPN to prevent significant drops in blood sugar.
Choice D reason:
Erythema at the insertion site can be a sign of local irritation or infection related to the intravenous catheter used for TPN administration. However, it is not a direct result of abruptly stopping TPN. This condition would be related to catheter care and site maintenance rather than the discontinuation of the TPN solution itself.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Haloperidol (Haldol) is an antipsychotic medication used primarily to treat schizophrenia and acute psychotic states. It is not typically used as a first-line treatment for depression and can have significant side effects that are not suitable for treating depressive disorders.
Choice B reason:
Sertraline (Zoloft) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly used as a first-line treatment for depression. SSRIs are preferred due to their efficacy, safety profile, and relatively mild side effects compared to other classes of antidepressants. Sertraline helps increase serotonin levels in the brain, improving mood and emotional well-being.
Choice C reason:
Clozapine (Clozaril) is an atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia, particularly in cases resistant to other treatments. It is not used as a first-line treatment for depression and has a risk of severe side effects, such as agranulocytosis, which requires regular blood monitoring.
Choice D reason:
Risperidone (Risperdal) is another atypical antipsychotic used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and irritability associated with autism. It is not considered a first-line treatment for depression and is typically used for conditions involving psychosis rather than depressive disorders.
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