A client with diabetes mellitus is being admitted to the hospital for surgery. The client has been taking Glucocorticoids (Prednisone) long-term for uncontrolled COPD. Which of the following must the nurse consider when she is obtaining a health history? (Select All that Apply.)
Due to the use of long-term glucocorticoids her medication must not be abruptly discontinued to avoid adrenal suppression
The client may develop low blood pressure
The use of long-term glucocorticoids places the client at risk for increased susceptibility to infection
The use of long-term glucocorticoids may have contributed to a spike in blood glucose levels
The client will most likely experience more pain
Correct Answer : A,C,D
The nurse must consider the following when obtaining a health history for a client with diabetes mellitus who has been taking glucocorticoids (prednisone) long-term for uncontrolled COPD:
- Due to the use of long-term glucocorticoids, the medication must not be abruptly discontinued to avoid adrenal suppression. Abruptly stopping glucocorticoids can lead to adrenal insufficiency and a potentially life-threatening condition. Gradual tapering of the medication is necessary under medical supervision.
- The use of long-term glucocorticoids may contribute to a spike in blood glucose levels. Glucocorticoids can cause insulin resistance and increase blood sugar levels, which can be problematic for individuals with diabetes mellitus.
- The use of long-term glucocorticoids places the client at risk for increased susceptibility to infection. Glucocorticoids can suppress the immune system, making the client more susceptible to infections. This is important to consider, especially in a hospital setting where the risk of acquiring infections may be higher.
Regarding the other options:
The client may develop low blood pressure: While glucocorticoids can cause fluid retention and increased blood pressure, they are not typically associated with low blood pressure.
The client will most likely experience more pain: The use of glucocorticoids is not directly related to increased pain perception. Pain management may be influenced by various factors, but it is not specifically attributed to long-term glucocorticoid use.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication commonly used to treat asthma and other inflammatory conditions. When taken for a prolonged period at higher doses, it can suppress the body's natural production of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Abruptly stopping prednisone after long-term use can lead to adrenocortical insufficiency, also known as adrenal insufficiency or adrenal crisis.
Adrenocortical insufficiency occurs because the body's adrenal glands need time to resume normal cortisol production after being suppressed by prednisone. Gradually reducing the dose of prednisone allows the adrenal glands to gradually increase their cortisol production, minimizing the risk of adrenal insufficiency.
Rebound pulmonary congestion, hyperglycemia, and severe dehydration are not specific adverse effects associated with discontinuing prednisone. However, it is important for clients who have been taking prednisone to follow their healthcare provider's instructions regarding the tapering schedule and any potential risks or side effects.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This response demonstrates that the patient understands the dosing frequency (twice a day) and the importance of taking it with a full glass of water, which aligns with the instructions provided by the nurse.
The other choices are incorrect because:
A. "Taking this medication can cause me to develop a non-productive cough.": This response is about a potential side effect of the medication, rather than showing an understanding of the dosing instructions.
B. "I will take my medication Daily with a full glass of water.": This response indicates a misunderstanding of the dosing frequency, as the prescription specifically states "BID" (twice a day) rather than "daily."
D. "The medication will have to be given by my Home Health Nurse twice a day.": This response suggests a reliance on the home health nurse to administer the medication, which contradicts the instructions for the patient to take it themselves. It shows a misunderstanding of the patient's responsibility in self-administering the medication.
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