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A client with asthma has been taking prednisone daily for two years and is now in the emergency department complaining of back pain.

An MRI of the spine shows a compression fracture of a vertebra.

Which adverse effect of prednisone is most likely associated with these findings?

A.

Fluid retention

B.

Osteoporosis

C.

Adrenal insufficiency

D.

Gastrointestinal bleeding

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A rationale
Fluid retention is a common side effect of prednisone, but it is not directly associated with compression fractures of the vertebrae.
Choice B rationale
Long-term use of prednisone can lead to osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and makes them more likely to break. Osteoporosis can increase the risk of fractures, including compression fractures of the vertebrae. This is likely the adverse effect of prednisone that is most associated with the client’s findings.
Choice C rationale
Adrenal insufficiency is a potential side effect of long-term prednisone use. However, it is not directly linked to compression fractures of the vertebrae.
Choice D rationale
While gastrointestinal bleeding can occur with prednisone use, it is not directly related to compression fractures of the vertebrae.
 


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Prednisone is a corticosteroid, and one of its effects can be fluid retention, which can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Therefore, lowered blood pressure is not typically associated with prednisone use.
Choice B rationale
Abdominal distention can be a side effect of prednisone. This can occur due to fluid retention or increased appetite, both of which can be effects of prednisone.
Choice C rationale
Prednisone can actually cause an increase in blood glucose levels, not a reduction. This is because prednisone can stimulate the liver to release extra glucose and can also make body tissues less sensitive to insulin.
Choice D rationale
Weight gain, not weight loss, is a common side effect of prednisone. This can occur due to increased appetite and fluid retention.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Misoprostol is a medication that can help protect the stomach lining and reduce the risk of gastric irritation and ulcers caused by NSAIDs.
Choice B rationale
Ranitidine is a type of antacid that can help reduce stomach acid and relieve symptoms of heartburn, but it does not specifically protect the stomach lining from the effects of NSAIDs.
Choice C rationale
Sucralfate is a medication that can help treat and prevent ulcers in the stomach and intestines, but it does not specifically protect the stomach lining from the effects of NSAIDs.
Choice D rationale
Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that can reduce stomach acid and relieve symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), but it does not specifically protect the stomach lining from the effects of NSAIDs. Prednisone Prednisone Explore

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