Prednisone is an oral corticosteroid that has less mineralocorticoid activity than other oral steroids. What does the nurse expect when giving this medication?
It will cause less extreme hyperglycemia
It will cause less sodium and water retention
It will cause more sodium retention and less water retention
It will cause more extreme hyperglycemia
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Prednisone causes hyperglycemia by increasing gluconeogenesis and insulin resistance, similar to other corticosteroids. Its lower mineralocorticoid activity does not significantly reduce this effect compared to other steroids. This statement is inaccurate, as prednisone’s glycemic impact is comparable, not less extreme, than other corticosteroids.
Choice B reason: Prednisone has minimal mineralocorticoid activity compared to steroids like hydrocortisone, resulting in less sodium and water retention. Mineralocorticoids promote renal sodium reabsorption, causing fluid retention. Prednisone’s glucocorticoid dominance reduces these effects, making this statement accurate for expected nursing observations during administration.
Choice C reason: Prednisone’s low mineralocorticoid activity leads to less, not more, sodium retention. It does not disproportionately affect water retention independently of sodium. This statement is inaccurate, as prednisone’s profile minimizes both sodium and water retention compared to steroids with higher mineralocorticoid effects.
Choice D reason: Prednisone causes hyperglycemia, but its effect is not more extreme than other corticosteroids like dexamethasone. Its glucocorticoid activity drives gluconeogenesis similarly across the class. This statement is inaccurate, as prednisone’s hyperglycemic effects are standard, not uniquely severe, among oral corticosteroids.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Insulin lispro, a rapid-acting insulin, peaks 1-2 hours after administration (around 8:30-9:30 am for a 7:30 am dose). This peak coincides with maximum glucose-lowering effect, increasing hypoglycemia risk, especially if breakfast is inadequate or delayed. This time is the most likely for low blood sugar due to insulin’s pharmacodynamics.
Choice B reason: At 7:45 am, insulin lispro is just beginning to act (onset 15-30 minutes), and breakfast is likely being consumed, providing glucose to counter insulin’s effect. Hypoglycemia risk is lower than at peak action (1-2 hours), making this time less critical for hypoglycemia monitoring.
Choice C reason: By 12:30 pm, insulin lispro’s effect (duration 3-5 hours) is waning, and glucose from breakfast is metabolized. Hypoglycemia risk is lower unless additional insulin or activity occurs. This time is less likely for hypoglycemia compared to the peak action period around 8:30 am.
Choice D reason: Tomorrow at 6:30 am is beyond insulin lispro’s duration of action (3-5 hours). Hypoglycemia risk from the 7:30 am dose is negligible 23 hours later, as insulin is cleared. This time is irrelevant to the dose’s effect, making it the least likely for hypoglycemia.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Prednisone reduces pain by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis via phospholipase A2 suppression, not increasing it. Discontinuing prednisone may worsen autoimmune joint pain. This statement is inaccurate, as prednisone’s anti-inflammatory action is beneficial, and the issue lies in its combination with NSAIDs.
Choice B reason: Alternate-day prednisone dosing reduces side effects but may not adequately control chronic autoimmune joint pain, as consistent suppression of inflammation is needed. This statement is less appropriate, as it does not address the primary concern of gastrointestinal risk from combining prednisone with ibuprofen.
Choice C reason: Ibuprofen is a potent NSAID, but its strength is not the issue. Combining it with prednisone increases gastrointestinal bleeding risk due to additive mucosal damage. Suggesting stronger ibuprofen is inappropriate and ignores the ulcer risk, making this statement inaccurate for safe pain management.
Choice D reason: Prednisone and NSAIDs like ibuprofen increase gastric ulcer risk by suppressing mucosal protective prostaglandins and increasing acid production. This combination can lead to bleeding or perforation, especially in autoimmune patients on chronic steroids. This statement is accurate, as it prioritizes discussing safer pain management alternatives.
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