A patient is receiving a glucocorticoid medication to treat an exacerbation of COPD and the provider has ordered a slow taper in order to discontinue this medication. The nurse explains to the patient that this is done to prevent which condition?

A. Remove the intravenous catheter.

While removing the intravenous catheter is an important step, the immediate priority in cases of extravasation is to stop the infusion to prevent further leakage into the surrounding tissues. After stopping the infusion, the catheter can be carefully removed.

B. Pack the intravenous site with ice.

Cold compresses or ice packs are sometimes used in the management of certain types of extravasation to help reduce local swelling and vasoconstriction. However, the immediate priority is to stop the infusion (Choice C). After that, specific interventions, such as warm or cold compresses, may be employed based on the specific chemotherapy agent involved.

C. Stop the intravenous infusion.

This is the correct answer. Stopping the infusion is the first and most immediate action to prevent further leakage of the chemotherapy drug into the surrounding tissues, reducing the risk of tissue damage and adverse effects.

D. Attempt to aspirate residual medication from the patient’s vein.

While aspirating residual medication may be part of the overall management of extravasation, it is not the first action. The priority is to stop the infusion to prevent further damage. After stopping the infusion, the nurse may assess the situation and determine whether aspirating residual medication is appropriate.

A. “This medication is a leading cause of bronchospasm.”

Glucocorticoid inhalers are not a leading cause of bronchospasm. In fact, they are often prescribed to reduce inflammation and prevent bronchospasm in conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

B. “This medication will cause you to become fatigued.”

Fatigue is not a common side effect of inhaled glucocorticoids. Systemic effects are more likely with oral or intravenous administration, whereas inhaled forms are designed to have localized effects.

C. “You must gargle and rinse your mouth immediately after each use of this medication.”

Inhaled glucocorticoids can sometimes lead to local side effects, such as oral candidiasis (thrush) or hoarseness. Gargling and rinsing the mouth after using the inhaler can help minimize these side effects by reducing the risk of fungal overgrowth in the mouth and throat.

D. “This medication may cause you to feel anxious.”

Anxiety is not a common side effect of inhaled glucocorticoids. Again, systemic effects are more associated with other routes of administration. The use of inhaled glucocorticoids is generally well-tolerated when used as directed.