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 C
Explanation
Choice A reason : Tetany and stiffness of the hands are not typical symptoms of hypothyroidism. Tetany is usually associated with hypocalcemia, which is not a direct result of hypothyroidism⁶.
Choice B reason : Exophthalmos and nervousness are symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism, not hypothyroidism. Exophthalmos, the bulging of the eyes, is particularly associated with Graves' disease, a type of hyperthyroidism⁶.
Choice C reason : Extreme fatigue and hair loss are common symptoms of hypothyroidism. The condition can lead to a slowing down of the body's metabolic processes, resulting in fatigue. Hair loss is also a frequent complaint due to the effects of reduced thyroid hormone levels on hair follicles⁶⁷⁸.
Choice D reason : Profuse sweating and flushed skin are more indicative of hyperthyroidism or other conditions, not hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism typically leads to cold intolerance and dry skin⁶.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason : Achieving a blood pressure of 120/80 is a general goal for overall cardiovascular health, but it is not specific to the management of heart failure. While controlling blood pressure is important in heart failure, the primary objective is to reduce the heart's workload¹.
Choice B reason : Reducing the workload on the heart is a key objective in managing heart failure. This can be achieved through medications that improve heart function, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgical interventions. The goal is to improve the heart's efficiency and reduce symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue¹.
Choice C reason : Encouraging the client to walk briskly on a treadmill at 4 to 5 miles an hour may not be appropriate for all heart failure patients, especially without medical supervision. Exercise recommendations should be personalized based on the individual's condition and tolerance¹.
Choice D reason : While dietary modifications are part of heart failure management, completely eliminating all sodium and fat is not practical or recommended. Instead, a balanced diet with controlled sodium intake is advised to help manage fluid retention¹.
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