A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has COPD and has been taking long-term high doses of prednisone. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
“Limit potassium-containing foods in your diet.”
"Withhold prednisone for 48 hours prior to receiving contrast dye.”
"Measure your blood glucose levels periodically.”
"Take prednisone on an empty stomach."
The Correct Answer is C
A. "Limit potassium-containing foods in your diet." Long-term prednisone use can lead to hypokalemia (low potassium levels) due to its mineralocorticoid effects, which increase potassium excretion. Clients on chronic corticosteroid therapy may actually need to consume potassium-rich foods to help maintain electrolyte balance, rather than restricting them.
B. "Withhold prednisone for 48 hours prior to receiving contrast dye." There is no general recommendation to withhold prednisone before contrast dye administration. However, clients on long-term steroid therapy may require stress-dose steroids if undergoing procedures that could trigger an adrenal crisis. Withholding prednisone without provider guidance could increase the risk of adrenal insufficiency.
C. "Measure your blood glucose levels periodically." Prednisone can cause hyperglycemia by increasing insulin resistance and promoting gluconeogenesis. Clients, especially those with diabetes or at risk for metabolic syndrome, should monitor blood glucose levels regularly to detect potential steroid-induced diabetes. Adjustments in diet or medication may be needed based on blood glucose trends.
D. "Take prednisone on an empty stomach." Taking prednisone on an empty stomach can increase the risk of gastrointestinal irritation, ulcers, and gastritis. It should be taken with food or milk to help reduce stomach irritation and minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Clients should be advised to follow this guideline to prevent discomfort and potential complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Alprazolam. Alprazolam, a benzodiazepine, is metabolized in the liver and can accumulate in clients with chronic liver disease, increasing the risk of sedation, confusion, and hepatic encephalopathy. Benzodiazepines should be used cautiously or avoided in clients with liver impairment.
B. Rotavirus vaccine. The rotavirus vaccine is a live, attenuated vaccine given to infants to prevent severe diarrhea caused by rotavirus infection. It is not recommended for adults, including those with chronic liver disease, as it is not indicated for their age group or condition.
C. Niacin. Niacin is used to lower cholesterol and treat vitamin B3 deficiency, but it can cause hepatotoxicity, especially in high doses. In clients with chronic liver disease, niacin may worsen liver function, making it an inappropriate choice unless absolutely necessary and closely monitored.
D. Hepatitis A vaccine. Clients with chronic liver disease are at higher risk of severe complications from hepatitis A infection. Vaccination provides protection against hepatitis A, which can cause acute liver failure in individuals with pre-existing liver disease. It is recommended to prevent further liver damage and protect overall health.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Orthostatic hypotension. Prednisone does not typically cause orthostatic hypotension. Instead, corticosteroids can lead to fluid retention and hypertension due to their effects on sodium and water balance. Orthostatic hypotension is more commonly associated with medications such as diuretics or antihypertensives.
B. Hyperglycemia. Prednisone is a glucocorticoid that increases blood glucose levels by enhancing gluconeogenesis and reducing insulin sensitivity. This effect can make blood sugar more difficult to control in clients who take insulin, potentially requiring higher insulin doses to maintain glycemic control. Clients with diabetes or those taking insulin should closely monitor their blood glucose levels while on prednisone.
C. Paresthesia. Paresthesia (numbness or tingling) is not a common adverse effect of prednisone or a direct interaction with insulin. While uncontrolled diabetes can cause diabetic neuropathy, prednisone does not typically cause neurological symptoms like tingling.
D. Jaundice. Prednisone is not commonly associated with hepatotoxicity or liver dysfunction leading to jaundice. However, long-term corticosteroid use may increase liver enzyme levels, but it does not typically cause direct liver damage or bile obstruction. Jaundice would require evaluation for other underlying liver conditions.
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