A patient has been taking oral prednisone for a few weeks after having a severe reaction to poison sumac. What would be an educational point the nurse would want to tell the patient regarding the sudden cessation of the drug?

Adrenal insufficiency

Memory complications

Cardiovascular complications

Psychosis

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A reason : When a patient stops taking oral prednisone abruptly after prolonged use, the body may not immediately resume normal production of cortisol, which is a hormone that prednisone mimics. This can lead to adrenal insufficiency, a condition where the body produces insufficient amounts of cortisol. Symptoms can include fatigue, weakness, weight loss, abdominal pain, and low blood pressure¹². It is crucial for patients to understand the need to taper off the medication gradually under medical supervision to avoid this potentially serious condition.

Choice B reason : Memory complications are not typically associated with the sudden cessation of prednisone. While some patients may experience mood swings or cognitive changes while taking prednisone, these are not the primary concerns when discontinuing the medication.

Choice C reason : Cardiovascular complications are not directly related to the sudden stoppage of prednisone. However, adrenal insufficiency can indirectly affect cardiovascular health due to the role of cortisol in maintaining blood pressure and cardiovascular function.

Choice D reason : Psychosis is a possible side effect of taking prednisone, especially at high doses, but it is not a common withdrawal symptom. Withdrawal symptoms are more likely to include physical signs of cortisol deficiency rather than severe psychiatric symptoms.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason : While helping the client identify positive personality traits can be beneficial for self-esteem and long-term recovery, it is not the immediate priority during the acute withdrawal phase. The focus during this time should be on managing withdrawal symptoms and ensuring the client's safety¹.

Choice B reason : Providing for adequate hydration and rest is the priority intervention for a client in alcohol withdrawal. Withdrawal can lead to significant fluid loss due to vomiting and sweating, and rest is essential for the body to recover from the physiological stress of detoxification. Ensuring the client is well-hydrated and rested can prevent complications and aid in the recovery process¹².

Choice C reason : Educating the client about the consequences of alcohol misuse is an important part of treatment but is not the immediate priority during withdrawal. Education is more effective when the client is stable and can participate actively in learning and discussion¹.

Choice D reason : Confronting the use of denial and other defense mechanisms may be part of the therapeutic process but is not the immediate priority during the acute phase of withdrawal. The nurse's immediate concern should be the physical stabilization of the client¹.

A. Decreased potassium level B. Decreased sodium level C. Decreased phosphate level D. Decreased chloride level

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason : Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which means it helps the body get rid of excess water without causing potassium loss. Therefore, a decreased potassium level would not be expected.

Choice B reason : Spironolactone can lead to hyperkalemia (increased potassium levels) and hyponatremia (decreased sodium levels) because it causes the kidneys to excrete sodium while retaining potassium.

Choice C reason : A decreased phosphate level is not a typical finding associated with spironolactone use. Phosphate levels are more commonly affected by renal function and parathyroid hormone levels.

Choice D reason : A decreased chloride level is not specifically associated with spironolactone. While electrolyte imbalances can occur, spironolactone primarily affects potassium and sodium balance.

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A patient has been taking oral prednisone for a few weeks after having a severe reaction to poison sumac. What would be an educational point the nurse would want to tell the patient regarding the sudden cessation of the drug?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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