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 : Cleaning dentures in a denture cup is a standard hygiene practice but does not directly address the low WBC count. While maintaining oral hygiene is important, it is not the most critical action related to the client's immunocompromised state⁶.
Choice B reason : Replacing the water in flower vases daily is a good practice to prevent bacterial growth; however, it is recommended to avoid having flowers or plants in the room of an immunocompromised patient due to the risk of exposure to fungi and bacteria⁷.
Choice C reason : Humidifying the room can be beneficial for respiratory comfort, but it must be done with caution in immunocompromised patients. Humidifiers need to be kept clean to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi, which could be harmful to a patient with a low WBC count⁷.
Choice D reason : Serving cooked fruit with meals is the correct action because cooking fruit can eliminate potential pathogens that the client's compromised immune system may not be able to handle. Raw fruits and vegetables can harbor bacteria and other pathogens, so serving them cooked is a safer option for someone with a low WBC count⁶⁷.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason : Methadone is an opioid used primarily for opioid maintenance therapy and to relieve severe pain, not typically for alcohol withdrawal. It does not address the specific symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal such as seizures or delirium tremens¹.
Choice B reason : Salicylates, such as aspirin, are not used to treat alcohol withdrawal. They can increase the risk of bleeding, especially in the gastrointestinal tract, which can be a concern in individuals with a history of heavy alcohol use¹.
Choice C reason : Benzodiazepines, such as chlordiazepoxide, are the first-line treatment for alcohol withdrawal. They help reduce the risk of seizures, ease withdrawal symptoms, and can prevent the progression to more severe forms of withdrawal such as delirium tremens¹².
Choice D reason : Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine with sedative properties, but it is not a first-line medication for alcohol withdrawal. While it may provide some sedation, it does not prevent seizures or other serious complications of alcohol withdrawal¹.
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