A patient has been taking oral prednisone for a few weeks after having a severe reaction to poison sumac. What would be an educational point the nurse would want to tell the patient regarding the sudden cessation of the drug?

Choice A reason : Chronic back pain is not a specific symptom of SLE. While individuals with SLE may experience musculoskeletal pain, it is not as characteristic as other symptoms associated with the condition.

Choice B reason : A facial rash, particularly the classic "butterfly rash" that appears across the cheeks and bridge of the nose, is one of the hallmark signs of SLE. This rash is photosensitive and can be triggered or worsened by exposure to sunlight.

Choice C reason : Thickened skin is more commonly associated with systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) than with SLE. In SLE, skin involvement can include rashes and lesions, but not typically generalized skin thickening.

Choice D reason : Nausea is not a direct symptom of SLE, although it can be a side effect of medications used to treat SLE or may occur if the gastrointestinal system is affected by the disease.

Choice A reason : Individuals with OCD often engage in compulsive behaviors, such as picking up after others, to make their environment feel more controlled or tolerable. This behavior is a response to the anxiety produced by their obsessions, which in this case, could be related to cleanliness or order¹. By controlling their immediate environment, they may feel a temporary relief from their anxiety, even though this relief is often short-lived and the compulsion becomes a repetitive cycle².

Choice B reason : Changing tasks is not typically the goal of compulsive behaviors in OCD. These behaviors are usually very specific and are performed to manage the anxiety associated with particular obsessions. While the individual might switch from one compulsive behavior to another, it is not done with the intention of task variation but rather as a response to shifting obsessive thoughts¹.

Choice C reason : Compulsive behaviors in OCD are not aimed at increasing social interaction. In fact, these behaviors can often interfere with social activities and relationships, as they can be time-consuming and may make the individual feel embarrassed or ashamed, leading to social isolation².

Choice D reason : Compulsive behaviors can sometimes be a way for individuals with OCD to exert control over other behaviors or thoughts. However, the primary function of these behaviors is to manage the anxiety associated with obsessions, not necessarily to control other unrelated behaviors¹.