A client with Type 2 diabetes, controlled with diet and metformin, also has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). During an exacerbation of COPD, the client is prescribed prednisone to control inflammation. For which side effect should the nurse monitor the client?
Increased blood glucose levels.
Increased potassium levels.
Increased white blood cell count.
Increased ketones in the urine.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Prednisone is a corticosteroid that can cause hyperglycemia, especially in clients with diabetes. The nurse should monitor blood glucose levels because prednisone can increase insulin resistance and hepatic glucose production, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. Normal fasting blood glucose levels range from 70 to 99 mg/dL, and for individuals with diabetes, maintaining blood glucose levels within the target range set by their healthcare provider is crucial to prevent complications.
Choice B reason:
While corticosteroids can affect electrolyte balance, they typically cause a decrease in potassium levels, not an increase. Therefore, monitoring for hypokalemia, rather than hyperkalemia, would be more appropriate when a patient is on prednisone. The normal range for serum potassium is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L.
Choice C reason:
Corticosteroids like prednisone can cause leukocytosis, an increase in white blood cell count, as part of their immunosuppressive action. However, this is generally not a harmful side effect unless accompanied by infection or other complications. The normal range for white blood cell count is approximately 4,500 to 11,000 cells per microliter.
Choice D reason:
Increased ketones in the urine, or ketonuria, is not a typical side effect of prednisone. Ketonuria is more commonly associated with uncontrolled diabetes, particularly Type 1 diabetes, when there is an insulin deficiency and the body resorts to fat breakdown, leading to ketone production.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A respiratory rate of 24/min is slightly elevated, which can be expected in a client with pneumonia due to the body's attempt to increase oxygen intake and carbon dioxide elimination. However, this rate does not directly indicate ineffective airway clearance.
Choice B reason:
A weak, nonproductive cough is a key indicator of ineffective airway clearance. In pneumonia, the presence of secretions in the airways is common, and an effective cough is necessary to clear these secretions. A weak cough that does not produce sputum suggests that the client is unable to clear their airways effectively, which can lead to impaired gas exchange and worsening of symptoms.
Choice C reason:
Pulse oximetry (SpO2) of 90% indicates that the client's oxygen saturation is below the normal range, which is typically between 95-100% for healthy individuals. While this finding is concerning and warrants intervention, it is a result of ineffective airway clearance rather than a direct indicator of it.
Choice D reason:
Shortness of breath with activity is common in clients with pneumonia and can result from various factors, including impaired gas exchange, decreased lung compliance, and increased work of breathing. While it may be associated with ineffective airway clearance, it is not as specific as a weak, nonproductive cough for indicating this particular problem.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason
Increasing sodium intake is not recommended for patients who have passed a calcium oxalate stone. High sodium intake can increase calcium in the urine, which can contribute to the formation of new stones. Therefore, patients are often advised to limit their sodium intake to reduce the risk of stone recurrence.
Choice B Reason
Considering a move to an area with higher humidity is not a standard recommendation for preventing the recurrence of calcium oxalate stones. While climate can affect hydration levels, it is more important for the patient to focus on direct measures to stay hydrated, such as drinking more fluids.
Choice C Reason
Increasing water intake is a key recommendation for patients who have had calcium oxalate stones. Adequate hydration is essential to dilute the urine, which helps prevent the formation of new stones. Patients are often advised to drink enough water to produce at least 2.5 liters of urine per day.
Choice D Reason
Decreasing the intake of all calcium-rich foods and beverages is not generally recommended for patients with calcium oxalate stones. In fact, a moderate intake of dietary calcium can help reduce the risk of stone formation by binding with oxalate in the intestines, which prevents it from being absorbed into the urine. Patients should consult with a healthcare provider or dietitian to determine the appropriate amount of dietary calcium.
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