A patient will be starting therapy with a corticosteroid. The nurse reviews the prescriber's orders and notes that an interaction may occur if the corticosteroid is taken with which of these drug classes?
Antibiotics
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Opioid analgesics
Antidepressants
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Antibiotics are not likely to interact with corticosteroids, unless they are aminoglycosides, which can increase the risk of hypokalemia. However, most antibiotics do not affect the metabolism or efficacy of corticosteroids.
Choice B reason: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can interact with corticosteroids, as they both have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. This can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, and perforation. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the patient for signs of bleeding and advise the patient to avoid taking NSAIDs with corticosteroids.
Choice C reason: Opioid analgesics are not likely to interact with corticosteroids, unless they are codeine, which can decrease the clearance of corticosteroids. However, most opioid analgesics do not affect the metabolism or efficacy of corticosteroids.
Choice D reason: Antidepressants are not likely to interact with corticosteroids, unless they are monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which can increase the risk of hypertension and hypertensive crisis. However, most antidepressants do not affect the metabolism or efficacy of corticosteroids.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Tremors are a common sign of hypoglycemia, which occurs when the blood glucose level drops below 70 mg/dL. Hypoglycemia can cause shakiness, nervousness, and anxiety.
Choice B reason: Polydipsia, or excessive thirst, is not a manifestation of hypoglycemia, but rather of hyperglycemia, which occurs when the blood glucose level is too high. Hyperglycemia can cause dehydration, dry mouth, and increased urination.
Choice C reason: Confusion is another common sign of hypoglycemia, which can affect the brain's function and cognition. Hypoglycemia can cause dizziness, headache, difficulty concentrating, and impaired judgment.

Choice D reason: Polyphagia, or excessive hunger, is also not a manifestation of hypoglycemia, but rather of hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia can cause the body to break down muscle and fat for energy, resulting in weight loss and increased appetite.
Choice E reason: Polyuria, or excessive urination, is also not a manifestation of hypoglycemia, but rather of hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia can cause the kidneys to excrete excess glucose in the urine, leading to fluid loss and electrolyte imbalance.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Vaginal cultures are not necessary for oral contraceptive therapy. They are used to diagnose infections such as bacterial vaginosis, yeast infection, or sexually transmitted diseases.
Choice B reason: Complete blood count is not essential for oral contraceptive therapy. It is used to measure the number and types of blood cells, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Choice C reason: Serum potassium level is the most important laboratory test for oral contraceptive therapy. This is because some oral contraceptives can increase the risk of hyperkalemia, which is a high level of potassium in the blood. Hyperkalemia can cause serious complications such as cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and paralysis.
Choice D reason: Pregnancy test is not a laboratory test, but a urine test. It is important to rule out pregnancy before starting oral contraceptive therapy, but it is not the most important test for the nurse to assess.
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