A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a parent of a child who has asthma about the administration of montelukast. Which of the following statements by the parent indicates an understanding of the teaching?

Prednisone can cause blood glucose levels to increase.

The nurse should explain to the client that the reason for checking his blood glucose level is because prednisone, a medication he is receiving, can cause an increase in blood glucose levels. Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication that is commonly used in the treatment of various conditions, including COPD. It has the potential to raise blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis (the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources) and decreasing insulin sensitivity. Monitoring blood glucose levels is important to assess and manage any potential hyperglycaemia or changes in the client's blood sugar levels while on prednisone.

Older adults are not at increased risk for developing type 1 diabetes mellitus in (option A) is incorrect. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that typically occurs in childhood or adolescence, and it is characterized by the destruction of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

Albuterol treatments, which are used to relieve bronchospasms in clients with COPD, are not known to cause blood glucose levels to decrease in (option C) is incorrect. Albuterol is a beta-2 adrenergic agonist that primarily acts on the respiratory system and does not have a direct effect on blood glucose levels.

Having COPD does not directly cause blood glucose levels to fluctuate in (option D) is incorrect. While there can be various factors that may indirectly affect blood glucose levels in individuals with COPD (e.g., medications, stress, comorbidities), the primary reason for monitoring blood glucose in this case is the use of prednisone.

In summary, the nurse should explain to the client that the blood glucose levels are being checked because prednisone, a medication he is taking for his COPD, can cause an increase in blood glucose levels. This allows for appropriate monitoring and management of any potential hyperglycemia associated with the use of prednisone.

The APN, also known as a nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist, has advanced knowledge and expertise in pharmacology and medication management. They are trained to assess medication interactions, evaluate potential risks, and provide guidance to ensure safe and effective medication use.

The other members of the interdisciplinary team listed are not specifically trained to address medication interactions:

1. Social worker: Social workers focus on addressing psychosocial aspects of care, such as emotional support, counseling, and resource coordination. While they may provide valuable assistance in various areas of the client's care, they typically do not have specialized knowledge in medication interactions.
2. Patient care technician: Patient care technicians, also known as nursing assistants or certified nursing assistants, provide direct patient care under the supervision of nurses. They do not typically have the training or authority to address medication interactions.
3. Psychologist: Psychologists specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental and emotional health concerns. While they may be involved in the client's overall care, including medication management for mental health conditions, their expertise lies primarily in psychological assessment and therapy rather than medication interactions.