A nurse is assisting in the care of an older adult client who has COPD and is receiving albuterol treatments and 20 mg of prednisone twice daily. The client asks why the nurse is checking his blood glucose level.

Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Older adults are at risk for developing type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Prednisone can cause blood glucose levels to increase.

Albuterol treatments can cause blood glucose levels to decrease.

Having COPD causes blood glucose levels to fluctuate.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Prednisone can cause blood glucose levels to increase.

The nurse should explain to the client that the reason for checking his blood glucose level is because prednisone, a medication he is receiving, can cause an increase in blood glucose levels. Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication that is commonly used in the treatment of various conditions, including COPD. It has the potential to raise blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis (the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources) and decreasing insulin sensitivity. Monitoring blood glucose levels is important to assess and manage any potential hyperglycaemia or changes in the client's blood sugar levels while on prednisone.

Older adults are not at increased risk for developing type 1 diabetes mellitus in (option A) is incorrect. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that typically occurs in childhood or adolescence, and it is characterized by the destruction of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

Albuterol treatments, which are used to relieve bronchospasms in clients with COPD, are not known to cause blood glucose levels to decrease in (option C) is incorrect. Albuterol is a beta-2 adrenergic agonist that primarily acts on the respiratory system and does not have a direct effect on blood glucose levels.

Having COPD does not directly cause blood glucose levels to fluctuate in (option D) is incorrect. While there can be various factors that may indirectly affect blood glucose levels in individuals with COPD (e.g., medications, stress, comorbidities), the primary reason for monitoring blood glucose in this case is the use of prednisone.

In summary, the nurse should explain to the client that the blood glucose levels are being checked because prednisone, a medication he is taking for his COPD, can cause an increase in blood glucose levels. This allows for appropriate monitoring and management of any potential hyperglycemia associated with the use of prednisone.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Epinephrine is a medication commonly used to treat severe allergic reactions, also known as anaphylaxis. One of the hallmark signs of anaphylaxis is difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Epinephrine works by constricting blood vessels, relaxing smooth muscles in the airways, and reducing swelling, which can help relieve the symptoms of respiratory distress. Epinephrine is not typically used to treat nausea, hyperglycemia, or hand tremors.

Nausea can be caused by various factors and is usually managed with antiemetic medications. Hyperglycemia, which refers to high blood sugar levels, is typically managed with appropriate diabetes management, including insulin or other glucose-lowering medications. Hand tremors can have different underlying causes, and their treatment depends on the specific etiology.

A. "You should take the medication on an empty stomach to prevent a headache." B. The headaches should decrease as you get used to the medication." C. "Swallow the tablet whole to minimize your headaches." D. "You can discontinue the medication until the headache goes away!"

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Headaches are a common side effect of isosorbide dinitrate, especially when initially starting the medication. However, they often improve as the body adjusts to the medication. It is important to reassure the client that the headaches should decrease over time. If the headaches persist or worsen, the client should inform their healthcare provider for further evaluation and possible adjustment of the medication regimen.

The statement about taking the medication on an empty stomach is not relevant to preventing headaches associated with isosorbide dinitrate.

The statement about swallowing the tablet whole does not address the issue of headaches. Chewable isosorbide dinitrate is designed to be chewed or dissolved in the mouth, and swallowing it whole may not provide the intended therapeutic effect.

Discontinuing the medication until the headache goes away is not recommended without consulting the healthcare provider. Abruptly stopping or changing the dose of isosorbide dinitrate can have serious consequences and should only be done under medical supervision.

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A nurse is assisting in the care of an older adult client who has COPD and is receiving albuterol treatments and 20 mg of prednisone twice daily. The client asks why the nurse is checking his blood glucose level. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Nursing Test Bank

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Explanation

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A nurse is assisting in the care of an older adult client who has COPD and is receiving albuterol treatments and 20 mg of prednisone twice daily. The client asks why the nurse is checking his blood glucose level.

Which of the following responses should the nurse make?