Which of the following is a common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids used in asthma management?
Increased appetite
Oral thrush (candidiasis)
Hypertension
Constipation
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Increased appetite is not a common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids due to their minimal systemic absorption. Systemic corticosteroids, like prednisone, stimulate appetite by altering metabolism and increasing hunger signals, but inhaled forms like fluticasone primarily act locally in the lungs, limiting such systemic effects.
Choice B reason: Oral thrush (candidiasis) is a frequent side effect of inhaled corticosteroids. Residual drug in the oral cavity disrupts local microbial flora, promoting Candida albicans overgrowth. Rinsing the mouth after use reduces this risk by removing excess corticosteroid, preventing fungal infections while maintaining anti-inflammatory effects in the airways.
Choice C reason: Hypertension is not typically caused by inhaled corticosteroids, as their systemic absorption is low. Systemic corticosteroids can cause fluid retention and increased blood pressure via mineralocorticoid effects, but inhaled forms like budesonide have minimal impact on cardiovascular parameters, making this an unlikely side effect.
Choice D reason: Constipation is not associated with inhaled corticosteroids. Their action is localized to the respiratory tract, with negligible gastrointestinal effects due to low systemic bioavailability. Systemic corticosteroids may cause metabolic changes, but constipation is not a reported side effect, and inhaled forms do not affect bowel motility.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Levofloxacin, a fluoroquinolone, is associated with tendonitis and tendon rupture, particularly in older adults. It disrupts collagen synthesis, weakening tendons like the Achilles, especially in patients over 60 or on corticosteroids. Monitoring for tendon pain is critical to prevent debilitating injury during therapy.
Choice B reason: Hypotension and tachycardia are not primary adverse effects of levofloxacin. Fluoroquinolones may cause QT prolongation, but cardiovascular effects are rare. Their main toxicities include tendon damage and CNS effects, making this an incorrect choice for monitoring in this patient.
Choice C reason: Double vision and floaters are not typical levofloxacin side effects. Fluoroquinolones may cause CNS effects like dizziness or confusion, but visual disturbances like these are more associated with drugs like chloroquine. Tendon issues are a more significant concern with levofloxacin.
Choice D reason: Numbness and tingling are not common with levofloxacin. While fluoroquinolones can cause CNS side effects like seizures in rare cases, peripheral neuropathy is less frequent. Tendonitis and rupture are more prominent risks, especially in older patients, making this an incorrect monitoring priority.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Moon face, a hallmark of long-term prednisone use, results from fat redistribution due to corticosteroid-induced metabolic changes. Prednisone promotes lipogenesis in facial and neck areas, causing a rounded, puffy appearance. This Cushingoid feature is a common, visible side effect of prolonged systemic corticosteroid therapy.
Choice B reason: Weight loss is not typical with long-term prednisone therapy. Prednisone increases appetite and promotes fat deposition, leading to weight gain, not loss. Catabolic effects on muscle may occur, but overall weight gain, including fluid retention, is more characteristic, making this incorrect.
Choice C reason: Pale skin color is not a common effect of prednisone. Corticosteroids can cause skin thinning or bruising due to reduced collagen synthesis, but pallor is not typical. Hyperpigmentation may occur in some cases, but moon face is the primary appearance-related side effect of long-term use.
Choice D reason: Hair loss is not a primary side effect of prednisone. Corticosteroids may cause hirsutism or thinning skin, but hair loss is more associated with chemotherapy or other drugs. Prednisone’s metabolic effects lead to fat redistribution, like moon face, rather than alopecia, making this incorrect.
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