A nurse is caring for a client who is taking prednisone for long-term treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following adverse effects of this medication?
Liver toxicity
Hemolytic anemia
Hypoglycemia
Bone loss
The Correct Answer is D
A. Liver toxicity: Prednisone is metabolized by the liver but is not commonly associated with hepatotoxicity. Liver function monitoring is not a primary concern for long-term prednisone therapy.
B. Hemolytic anemia: Prednisone does not typically cause hemolytic anemia. Its primary hematologic effects involve immunosuppression rather than direct destruction of red blood cells.
C. Hypoglycemia: Prednisone can increase blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis and reducing peripheral glucose uptake, which may lead to hyperglycemia rather than hypoglycemia.
D. Bone loss: Long-term use of prednisone decreases calcium absorption and bone formation, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Monitoring bone density and implementing preventive measures is essential for clients on chronic corticosteroid therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Thyroid-stimulating hormone level: TSH levels are used to assess thyroid function and are not affected by vancomycin therapy. Monitoring TSH is unrelated to safe administration of this antibiotic.
B. Blood glucose level: Blood glucose monitoring is important for clients with diabetes or receiving medications that affect glucose, but it is not directly relevant to vancomycin dosing or toxicity.
C. Total iron-binding count: Total iron-binding capacity reflects iron status and is unrelated to vancomycin therapy. It does not influence dosing or safety considerations for this antibiotic.
D. BUN level: Vancomycin is nephrotoxic, and kidney function must be monitored to prevent accumulation and toxicity. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) provides an indicator of renal function, and reviewing it prior to the next dose helps ensure safe administration.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Inform the nursing manager: While notifying the manager is important for accountability and support, it does not address the immediate safety needs of the client.
B. Monitor the client's condition: The first action after a medication error is to assess and monitor the client for any adverse effects. Ensuring the client’s safety and identifying early signs of complications takes priority over reporting.
C. Notify the client's provider: The provider should be informed promptly, but only after assessing the client and determining their current condition and any immediate interventions needed.
D. Complete an occurrence report: Documenting the error is essential for legal and quality improvement purposes, but it is not the first priority. The client’s safety must be addressed before reporting the incident.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.