The home health nurse provides client teaching to a client who is taking oral prednisolone.
The nurse provides what instruction to the client?

This is because a nutritious diet provides adequate fiber and nutrients for the GI tract, avoiding alcohol prevents dehydration and irritation of the GI mucosa, and cautious use of laxatives prevents dependency and electrolyte imbalance.

Choice A is wrong because caffeine can stimulate the GI motility and cause diarrhea or cramps.

Choice C is wrong because some prescription medications can affect the GI function, such as antibiotics, opioids, or antacids.

Increased fluid intake is good, but not enough to promote optimal GI function.

Vigorous exercise can also cause GI distress or dehydration.

Choice D is wrong because adequate fluid intake is essential for preventing constipation and maintaining hydration.

Exercise can also help with bowel movements and overall health.

Normal ranges for GI function vary depending on the individual, but generally, a person should have at least one bowel movement every 3 days and no more than 3 bowel movements per day.

The stool should be soft, formed, and easy to pass.

This is because prednisolone can cause insomnia if taken later in the day, and it mimics the natural secretion of cortisol by the adrenal glands, which peaks in the morning.

Choice A is wrong because splitting the dose into two equal doses can increase the risk of adrenal suppression and reduce the efficacy of alternate-day therapy (ADT), which is used to minimize adverse effects of corticosteroids.

Choice B is wrong because taking prednisolone before bedtime can interfere with sleep and cause nocturnal cortisol secretion, which can lead to Cushing syndrome.

Choice C is wrong because taking prednisolone 1 hour before meals can cause gastric irritation and ulceration, and it is recommended to take it with food or milk.