A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has COPD and has been taking long-term high doses of prednisone. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
“Limit potassium-containing foods in your diet.”
"Withhold prednisone for 48 hours prior to receiving contrast dye.”
"Measure your blood glucose levels periodically.”
"Take prednisone on an empty stomach."
The Correct Answer is C
A. "Limit potassium-containing foods in your diet." Long-term prednisone use can lead to hypokalemia (low potassium levels) due to its mineralocorticoid effects, which increase potassium excretion. Clients on chronic corticosteroid therapy may actually need to consume potassium-rich foods to help maintain electrolyte balance, rather than restricting them.
B. "Withhold prednisone for 48 hours prior to receiving contrast dye." There is no general recommendation to withhold prednisone before contrast dye administration. However, clients on long-term steroid therapy may require stress-dose steroids if undergoing procedures that could trigger an adrenal crisis. Withholding prednisone without provider guidance could increase the risk of adrenal insufficiency.
C. "Measure your blood glucose levels periodically." Prednisone can cause hyperglycemia by increasing insulin resistance and promoting gluconeogenesis. Clients, especially those with diabetes or at risk for metabolic syndrome, should monitor blood glucose levels regularly to detect potential steroid-induced diabetes. Adjustments in diet or medication may be needed based on blood glucose trends.
D. "Take prednisone on an empty stomach." Taking prednisone on an empty stomach can increase the risk of gastrointestinal irritation, ulcers, and gastritis. It should be taken with food or milk to help reduce stomach irritation and minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Clients should be advised to follow this guideline to prevent discomfort and potential complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Promethazine. Promethazine is an antihistamine used to treat nausea, vomiting, and allergic reactions. It does not have antihypertensive properties and does not lower blood pressure. Instead, it has sedative effects and is commonly used for motion sickness or as a preoperative medication.
B. Amlodipine. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow. It is commonly prescribed for hypertension and angina, as it reduces vascular resistance and decreases the workload on the heart. Clients taking amlodipine should be monitored for hypotension, edema, and dizziness.
C. Fluconazole. Fluconazole is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections such as candidiasis. It does not affect blood pressure regulation and is not used for managing hypertension. However, it can interact with certain medications, so monitoring for drug interactions is important.
D. Phenazopyridine. Phenazopyridine is a urinary analgesic used to relieve symptoms of urinary tract infections (UTIs), such as burning and pain during urination. It does not lower blood pressure and has no effect on cardiovascular function. Clients should be advised that this medication can cause orange discoloration of the urine.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Drowsiness. Alendronate, a bisphosphonate used to treat osteoporosis, does not cause drowsiness. It primarily affects bone metabolism rather than the central nervous system. If a client experiences drowsiness, it is likely due to another cause rather than the medication itself.
B. Dyskinesia. Dyskinesia refers to involuntary movements often associated with neurological disorders or medications affecting dopamine, such as antipsychotics or Parkinson’s medications. Alendronate does not affect dopamine or the nervous system, making dyskinesia an unlikely adverse effect.
C. Musculoskeletal pain. A known side effect of alendronate is musculoskeletal pain, including bone, joint, and muscle discomfort. This occurs due to the medication’s effects on bone remodeling and turnover. While mild pain may resolve on its own, persistent or severe pain should be reported to the provider as it may require dose adjustment or discontinuation.
D. Weight gain. Alendronate does not cause weight gain. It primarily acts on bone tissue to inhibit osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, preventing further bone loss. Clients experiencing unexplained weight gain should be evaluated for other potential causes, such as metabolic conditions or lifestyle factors.
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