A nurse is teaching the client with systemic lupus erythematosus about prednisone. What information is the priority?

Can cause sodium and fluid retention.

Long-term effects include fat redistribution.

Might make the client feel jittery or nervous.

Never stop prednisone abruptly.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A.   Prednisone can lead to sodium and fluid retention, which can result in hypertension and edema. While this is an important consideration, it is not the most critical point to emphasize initially. Managing weight and blood pressure is essential, but there are more immediate concerns with the medication's use.
B.   Long-term use of prednisone can result in changes such as fat redistribution, leading to a "moon face," buffalo hump, and increased abdominal fat. This is significant for understanding the side effects of prolonged therapy, but it is not the most urgent information for the client to know.
C.   Prednisone can cause side effects such as mood changes, anxiety, or jitteriness, especially when initiating treatment or adjusting dosages. While this is relevant, the potential for emotional or psychological effects is secondary to the critical management of the medication.
D.   This is the most critical point to emphasize. Prednisone is a corticosteroid that can suppress the body's natural adrenal function. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to adrenal crisis, which can be life- threatening.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Morphine is a strong opioid analgesic that is effective for managing severe pain, especially in acute situations like a vaso-occlusive crisis. Administering it intravenously allows for rapid onset of pain relief, which is critical given the severity of the patient’s symptoms. Continuous dosing (ATC—around the clock) ensures that pain is managed effectively.
B. Fentanyl patches are typically used for chronic pain management and take time to reach effective levels in the bloodstream (up to 12 hours or longer). In the case of acute severe pain from a vaso- occlusive crisis, this option would not provide immediate relief.
C. While ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can help relieve mild to moderate pain, it is not adequate for severe pain management. Additionally, in the setting of sickle cell disease, patients may be at risk for renal issues, making high doses of NSAIDs potentially harmful.
D. Hydromorphone is also a strong opioid analgesic; however, administering it orally may not be effective for severe pain management in an acute situation. IV administration of opioids is preferred for immediate and potent pain relief during a vaso-occlusive crisis.

A. Oxygen administration B. Blood transfusion C. Intravenous fluid therapy D. Pain management

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Oxygen therapy may be indicated if the patient shows signs of respiratory distress or has low oxygen saturation levels, but it does not address the underlying pain or dehydration associated with the crisis.
B. Blood transfusions can be an effective treatment for severe complications of sickle cell disease, including acute chest syndrome or severe anemia. However, transfusions are not typically the immediate priority in the early management of a sickle cell crisis unless there is a clear indication of severe anemia or complications.
C. IV fluid therapy is crucial for managing dehydration, which can exacerbate sickle cell crises. Adequate hydration helps reduce blood viscosity and can alleviate some symptoms. However, while important, fluid therapy alone does not address the immediate and often severe pain that patients experience.
D. Pain management is the top priority in the management of a patient in a sickle cell crisis. Patients often experience severe pain due to vaso-occlusive events, and addressing pain is essential for patient comfort and quality of care.

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A nurse is teaching the client with systemic lupus erythematosus about prednisone. What information is the priority?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A patient who has sickle cell disease was admitted with a vaso-occlusive crisis and reports severe abdominal and flank pain. Which of the following analgesic medications will be MOST appropriate to administer to the patient?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The nurse admits a patient who is in a sickle cell crisis. The nurse should prepare for which intervention as the top priority in the management of the patient?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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