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
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Monitoring daily weight can help detect early signs of lithium toxicity, as sudden weight gain may indicate fluid retention, which is a concern with lithium treatment. It is important for clients to monitor their weight regularly to ensure no significant fluctuations occur that could suggest adverse effects⁴.
Choice B reason: Avoiding foods with high tyramine content is not specifically related to lithium therapy. This dietary restriction is more commonly associated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), a different class of psychiatric medications. Lithium does not interact with tyramine in the same way⁴.
Choice C reason: Limiting daily fluid intake is not recommended for clients taking lithium unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider. Adequate fluid intake is essential to prevent dehydration, which can increase lithium levels and the risk of toxicity. Clients should maintain a consistent intake of fluids unless they have a condition that requires fluid restriction⁴⁵.
Choice D reason: Following a low sodium diet is not advised for clients on lithium therapy. Lithium is processed in the body similarly to sodium, so if sodium levels are too low, lithium retention may increase, leading to toxicity. Clients should maintain a consistent, adequate intake of sodium to prevent fluctuations in lithium levels⁴.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason : Levodopa/carbidopa is the most commonly prescribed medication for the management of Parkinson's disease symptoms. It works by increasing dopamine levels in the brain, which helps control movement and reduce the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
Choice B reason : Piperacillin/tazobactam is an antibiotic and is not used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
Choice C reason : Levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone replacement medication and is not used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
Choice D reason : Carbamazepine is a medication used to treat seizures and certain types of nerve pain but is not typically used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
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