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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason : Albuterol is a bronchodilator often used in asthma to relieve symptoms of bronchospasm. While it can help open airways, in a case of anaphylaxis, it does not address the systemic histamine release and is not the first-line treatment¹.
Choice B reason : Epinephrine is the primary treatment for anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction that can occur after a bee sting. It works rapidly to improve breathing, stimulate the heart, reverse hives, and reduce swelling of the face, lips, and throat¹³. In an emergency situation where a patient is experiencing anaphylactic symptoms such as difficulty breathing and a feeling of a lump in the throat, immediate administration of epinephrine is critical to counteract the reaction.
Choice C reason : The term "high-residual cannula" does not correspond to a recognized medical treatment or device. In the context of anaphylaxis, oxygen may be administered via a high-flow nasal cannula if the patient is experiencing respiratory distress, but this would be secondary to the administration of epinephrine.
Choice D reason : The option "Administer 5 mg prescription of the bee" is nonsensical as it does not refer to a legitimate medical treatment. In the context of bee stings, no medication is prescribed as "prescription of the bee."
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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