A client is prescribed milk of magnesia.

After reviewing the client’s lab results, which potential electrolyte imbalance is the nurse concerned about?

Choice A rationale
While a fasting blood sugar level of 130 mg/dL is slightly elevated, it is not the most concerning finding given the current medications. Metformin is a medication used to control blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes, so this patient’s blood sugar is being managed.
Choice B rationale
Yellow discoloration of the sclera is a sign of jaundice, which can indicate liver damage. Given that this patient is taking several medications that can potentially cause liver damage (including isoniazid and acetaminophen), this finding is most concerning.
Choice C rationale
A positive result on the tuberculin skin test indicates exposure to tuberculosis, but it does not necessarily mean the patient has active tuberculosis. The patient is currently taking medications for tuberculosis (isoniazid and rifampin), indicating that this condition is being managed.
Choice D rationale
A blood pressure reading of 100/70 mmHg is within the normal range, so this would not be the most concerning finding. The patient’s metoprolol medication is used to manage blood pressure, indicating that this aspect of the patient’s health is being managed. Prednisone Prednisone Explore

Choice A rationale
Peripheral edema is not a common side effect of stopping steroids early. Peripheral edema is often associated with conditions such as heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease.
Choice B rationale
Low blood pressure is a common side effect when a person stops taking steroids like prednisone abruptly. Prednisone is a glucocorticoid, a type of steroid that works to mimic the effects of cortisol, a hormone that the adrenal glands produce. The body uses cortisol to regulate the heart rate and blood pressure. When a person takes prednisone for longer than a few weeks, the body reduces the amount of cortisol it makes. When a person suddenly stops taking prednisone, the body cannot immediately produce enough cortisol to make up for the missing drug. This results in withdrawal symptoms, including low blood pressure.
Choice C rationale
Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is not typically a withdrawal symptom of stopping steroids early. While long-term use of steroids can lead to increased blood sugar levels, stopping the medication does not typically cause hyperglycemia.
Choice D rationale
Weight loss can be a symptom of steroid withdrawal, but it is not the most immediate or common symptom that would be anticipated in a client who stopped taking their prescribed steroids early. More common symptoms include fatigue, joint pain, and low blood pressure.