A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for prednisone to treat rheumatoid arthritis. The nurse should inform the client that which of the following is a therapeutic effect of this medication?

Choice A reason: Constipation is not an adverse effect of tamoxifen. Tamoxifen does not affect the gastrointestinal motility or function. Constipation may be caused by other factors such as dehydration, low-fiber diet, or lack of exercise.

Choice B reason: Clotting is an adverse effect of tamoxifen. Tamoxifen can increase the risk of thromboembolic events such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or stroke. Clotting can cause serious complications such as pain, swelling, shortness of breath, chest pain, or neurological deficits.

Choice C reason: Tinnitus is not an adverse effect of tamoxifen. Tamoxifen does not affect the auditory system or cause hearing loss. Tinnitus may be caused by other factors such as noise exposure, ear infection, or medication toxicity.

Choice D reason: Urinary retention is not an adverse effect of tamoxifen. Tamoxifen does not affect the urinary system or cause bladder dysfunction. Urinary retention may be caused by other factors such as prostate enlargement, nerve damage, or medication side effects.

Choice A reason: Decreases inflammation is a therapeutic effect of prednisone. Prednisone is a corticosteroid that suppresses the immune system and reduces the production of inflammatory mediators. This helps to relieve the pain, swelling, and stiffness of rheumatoid arthritis.

Choice B reason: Increases bone density is not a therapeutic effect of prednisone. Prednisone can cause bone loss and osteoporosis by decreasing calcium absorption and increasing calcium excretion. This increases the risk of fractures and bone damage.

Choice C reason: Reduces risk of infection is not a therapeutic effect of prednisone. Prednisone can increase the risk of infection by weakening the immune system and making it less able to fight off pathogens. This requires close monitoring and prophylactic antibiotics.

Choice D reason: Improves peripheral blood flow is not a therapeutic effect of prednisone. Prednisone can impair peripheral blood flow by causing vasoconstriction and increasing blood pressure. This can worsen the symptoms of peripheral vascular disease and increase the risk of thrombosis.