How it Works
Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (Free-Trial)

A nurse is planning to teach a client about taking prednisone. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A.

Take on an empty stomach.

B.

Schedule dosage at bedtime.

C.

Increase dietary calcium.

D.

Monitor for weight loss.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A.    Prednisone should generally be taken with food or after a meal to reduce the risk of gastric irritation or ulcer formation. Taking it on an empty stomach can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, such as gastritis or peptic ulcers.

B. While some medications are best taken at bedtime (such as those with sedative effects), prednisone is a corticosteroid that can affect the body's circadian rhythm and may interfere with sleep. It typically causes insomnia or restlessness, so it’s usually advised to take it in the morning.

C. Prednisone and other corticosteroids can lead to bone loss (osteoporosis) over time, especially with long-term use. One of the side effects of corticosteroid therapy is decreased calcium absorption and bone density loss, making individuals at higher risk for fractures.

D. Prednisone more commonly causes weight gain rather than weight loss. Corticosteroids increase appetite and can lead to fluid retention, both of which can result in weight gain. Additionally, prednisone can cause redistribution of fat, often leading to characteristic side effects like "moon face" or increased abdominal fat.

B.    Incorrect. Prednisone is often prescribed as a single daily dose in the morning to coincide with the body's natural cortisol release.

C.    Incorrect. While calcium supplementation might be necessary for some individuals on long-term prednisone therapy, it is not a primary instruction related to taking prednisone.

D.    Correct. Monitoring for weight loss is important due to the potential for weight changes (both weight gain and weight loss) as a result of prednisone's effects on metabolism and appetite.


Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Free Nursing Study Resources

Related Questions

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Biological response modifiers are medications used to treat autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, not to prevent infection.

B. Taking a hot shower in the morningcan help decrease stiffness and improve joint mobility for people with rheumatoid arthritis.

C. Clustering physical activities during the day can cause fatigue and joint stress for people with rheumatoid arthritis. It is better to pace activities throughout the day and take frequent breaks to rest the joints.

D. Cold packs can help reduce inflammation and pain, but they should be applied with a cloth barrier to protect the skin from direct contact.

Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"B"},"B":{"answers":"A"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"B"},"E":{"answers":"A"},"F":{"answers":"B"}}

Explanation

A. Administer oxytocin. (This is unanticipated as the client is experiencing contractions, and oxytocin might not be needed at this point.)
D. Limit fluid intake to 3,000 mL/day. (Fluid restriction might not be necessary based on the provided notes.)
F. Place client in supine position. (The supine position is generally avoided during pregnancy due to potential compression of the vena cava.)

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.

Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today

Register