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 C
Explanation
Choice A reason : While propranolol can be used to reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches, it is not contraindicated in patients with a history of migraines⁴.
Choice B reason : Propranolol is often prescribed for hypertension and is not contraindicated in such cases. It works by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors, which reduces heart rate and blood pressure⁴.
Choice C reason : Propranolol is contraindicated in patients with bronchial asthma. As a non-selective beta-blocker, it can cause bronchoconstriction and exacerbate asthma symptoms. Therefore, the nurse should report this finding to the provider⁴⁶.
Choice D reason : Hypothyroidism is not a contraindication for propranolol. However, the medication may mask signs of hypothyroidism, such as a slow heart rate, so the provider should be aware of the client's thyroid condition⁴.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E","F"]
Explanation
Choice A reason : Morphine sulfate is used intravenously in acute heart failure with pulmonary edema because it can reduce preload and afterload, thereby decreasing the work of the heart and improving breathing.
Choice B reason : Administering oxygen is crucial for a client with pulmonary edema to improve oxygenation and relieve symptoms of hypoxia.
Choice C reason : Transporting the client to the coronary care unit is appropriate for continuous monitoring and management of acute heart failure and pulmonary edema.
Choice D reason : While placing the client in a high Fowler's position is recommended to ease breathing, the low Fowler's side-lying position is not typically indicated for pulmonary edema. Therefore, this choice is incorrect.
Choice E reason : Inserting a Foley catheter can help monitor urine output, especially important when administering diuretics like furosemide, and manage fluid status.
Choice F reason : Administering furosemide (Lasix), a diuretic, helps to reduce fluid overload and relieve pulmonary congestion in clients with heart failure and pulmonary edema.
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