A nurse is caring for a client with a history of rheumatoid arthritis who takes corticosteroids on a regular basis. The client asks the nurse about the potential complications of taking corticosteroids. What is the nurse's best response?
"This medication can lead to thrombocytopenia."
"This medication can lead to hypotension."
"This medication can cause immunosuppression."
"This medication can cause anemia."
The Correct Answer is C
A. Corticosteroids are not typically associated with causing thrombocytopenia. Their primary effects are on the immune system and metabolism.
B. Corticosteroids more commonly cause hypertension due to fluid retention and increased sensitivity to vasoconstrictors, rather than hypotension.
C. Corticosteroids cause immunosuppression by inhibiting the function of various immune cells and reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines. This increases the risk of infections.
D. Anemia is not a direct effect of corticosteroid use. The medication's impact on the bone marrow typically affects the white blood cell count, particularly in causing leukocytosis, rather than leading to anemia.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. A positive Western blot test confirms the diagnosis of HIV, but it is not concerning once the diagnosis has been established.
B. A CD4-T-cell count of 505 cells/mm³ is low but not critically low. While it does indicate immunosuppression, it is not the most concerning value presented.
C. A platelet count of 115,000/mm³ is lower than normal and may indicate a risk for bleeding, but it is not as concerning as a critically low white blood cell count.
D. A WBC count of 800/mm³ is severely low and indicates a high risk for infection, which is particularly concerning in a client with HIV, as it suggests significant immunosuppression and vulnerability to opportunistic infections.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. A higher fluid intake, ideally 2 to 3 liters per day, is typically recommended to help flush uric acid from the body and prevent gout attacks, not just 1 to 1.5 L.
B. Aspirin is not recommended for gout pain management; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids are more appropriate.
C. Focusing on losing weight to achieve a normal BMI is important for managing gout, as obesity is a risk factor for gout and can exacerbate symptoms. Weight loss can help reduce uric acid levels and improve overall management of the condition.
D. Allopurinol is used for long-term management to reduce uric acid levels and prevent attacks, but it is not used during acute attacks. Colchicine or NSAIDs are more appropriate for acute gout attacks.
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