A nurse is caring for a client with a history of rheumatoid arthritis who takes corticosteroids on a regular basis. The client asks the nurse about the potential complications of taking corticosteroids. What is the nurse's best response?
"This medication can lead to thrombocytopenia."
"This medication can lead to hypotension."
"This medication can cause immunosuppression."
"This medication can cause anemia."
The Correct Answer is C
A. Corticosteroids are not typically associated with causing thrombocytopenia. Their primary effects are on the immune system and metabolism.
B. Corticosteroids more commonly cause hypertension due to fluid retention and increased sensitivity to vasoconstrictors, rather than hypotension.
C. Corticosteroids cause immunosuppression by inhibiting the function of various immune cells and reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines. This increases the risk of infections.
D. Anemia is not a direct effect of corticosteroid use. The medication's impact on the bone marrow typically affects the white blood cell count, particularly in causing leukocytosis, rather than leading to anemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Decreased prothrombin time is not typically associated with the emergent phase of a burn injury. Prothrombin time changes are more related to liver function or coagulation disorders.
B. Increased hematocrit is common in the emergent/resuscitative phase of burn injury due to fluid shifts and loss of plasma volume, leading to hemoconcentration.
C. Increased sodium is not typically seen in the emergent phase; instead, hyponatremia may occur due to fluid shifts and loss of sodium in the burn exudate.
D. Potassium deficit is more likely to occur later in the burn management phases. In the emergent phase, hyperkalemia is more common due to cell destruction and release of intracellular potassium.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Placing the client on a ventilator to remove CO2 is not directly related to preventing the development of MODS. While ventilation might be necessary for respiratory support, it does not address the systemic infection and inflammation that contribute to MODS.
B. Advising the client to use their call light to reduce the risk of falls is important for general safety but does not address the critical factors involved in preventing MODS in the context of SIRS.
C. Providing a high protein diet can support overall nutrition and healing but is not the primary intervention for preventing MODS. Managing the infection and maintaining hemodynamic stability are more critical.
D. Administering antibiotics to treat the bacterial infection and maintaining a mean arterial pressure (MAP) of at least 65 mm Hg are essential interventions. Effective antibiotic therapy addresses the infection, and maintaining MAP ensures adequate organ perfusion, both of which help prevent the progression to MODS.
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