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 : 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.

A. Decrease the client's carbohydrate intake. B. Increase the client's saturated fat intake. C. Decrease the client's fluid intake. D. Increase the client's sodium intake.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason : Decreasing the client's carbohydrate intake is not typically a priority intervention for cirrhosis and ascites. While managing overall nutrition is important, carbohydrates are a necessary component of a balanced diet and provide essential energy¹.

Choice B reason : Increasing the client's saturated fat intake is not recommended in cirrhosis and ascites. Saturated fats can contribute to fatty liver disease and worsen liver function. A diet low in saturated fats and high in omega-3 fatty acids is generally advised¹.

Choice C reason : Decreasing the client's fluid intake is a key intervention for managing ascites in cirrhosis. Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, and reducing fluid intake can help manage this condition. The goal is to prevent further fluid accumulation and reduce the risk of complications such as spontaneous bacterial peritonitis¹².

Choice D reason : Increasing the client's sodium intake is not advised for cirrhosis and ascites. Sodium can cause the body to retain water, exacerbating fluid accumulation in the abdomen. A low-sodium diet is typically recommended to help control ascites¹.

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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 C

Explanation

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