A patient is taking high doses of prednisone to control the symptoms of acute exacerbation of systemic lupus erythematosus. When teaching the patient about the use of prednisone, which information is important for the nurse to include?
Check your temperature daily because prednisone can hide signs of an infection.
Do not stop taking the prednisone suddenly, it should be decreased gradually.
Call the doctor if you experience any mood alterations with the prednisone.
Weigh yourself daily to monitor for weight gain caused by water or increased fat.
The Correct Answer is B
Sudden discontinuation of prednisone can result in adrenal insufficiency and can lead to life-threatening complications. The nurse should also instruct the patient to report any symptoms of an infection, such as fever, to the doctor promptly, as prednisone can mask signs of an infection.
Monitoring for mood alterations and daily weight measurement are also important aspects of care, but they are not as crucial as the need to gradually taper off the medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Sudden discontinuation of prednisone can result in adrenal insufficiency and can lead to life-threatening complications. The nurse should also instruct the patient to report any symptoms of an infection, such as fever, to the doctor promptly, as prednisone can mask signs of an infection.
Monitoring for mood alterations and daily weight measurement are also important aspects of care, but they are not as crucial as the need to gradually taper off the medication.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Clostridium difficile is a highly contagious bacteria that can spread easily from person to person. The patient should be placed in a private room to prevent the spread of the infection to other patients. Contact isolation precautions should also be implemented, which involves wearing gloves and a gown when entering the patient's room, as well as washing hands thoroughly after leaving the room.
Options a and b are not directly related to the care of a patient with Clostridium difficile. Option d is also not directly related, although proper food handling and storage can help prevent the spread of other types of infections.
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