A patient with type 1 diabetes was prescribed a glucocorticoid for COPD. Which will the nurse expect in this patient?

Choice A reason: This is not a symptom of right heart failure. Hypertension is a risk factor for developing heart failure, but it does not indicate the severity or location of the heart failure.

Choice B reason: This is not a symptom of right heart failure. Dyspnea upon exertion is a symptom of left heart failure, which occurs when the left ventricle fails to pump blood effectively to the lungs.

Choice C reason: This is a symptom of right heart failure. Significant edema to both lower legs and feet is a result of increased pressure in the systemic circulation, which occurs when the right ventricle fails to pump blood effectively to the rest of the body. This causes fluid to accumulate in the dependent areas, such as the lower extremities.

Choice D reason: This is not a symptom of right heart failure. Decreased urine output is a symptom of left heart failure, which occurs when the left ventricle fails to pump blood effectively to the aorta and the rest of the body. This causes reduced renal perfusion and oliguria.

Choice A reason: This is not the best response by the nurse. Stopping the medication abruptly can cause rebound hypertension and other complications. The patient should not stop taking the medication without consulting their health care provider.

Choice B reason: This is not the best response by the nurse. Cutting the pill in half and taking a reduced dosage can affect the efficacy and safety of the medication. The patient should not change the dosage of the medication without consulting their health care provider.

Choice C reason: This is the best response by the nurse. Dizziness is a common side effect of ACE inhibitors, especially when the patient changes position or stands up quickly. This is due to the orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing up) caused by the vasodilation effect of the medication. However, this side effect is usually mild and transient, and can be prevented by rising slowly from a sitting or lying position, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding alcohol.

Choice D reason: This is not the best response by the nurse. Scheduling the patient to visit the health care provider today is not necessary, unless the dizziness is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, such as chest pain, fainting, or palpitations. The patient should be advised to monitor their blood pressure and report any significant changes or concerns to their health care provider.