A patient will be starting therapy with a corticosteroid. The nurse reviews the prescriber's orders and notes that an interaction may occur if the corticosteroid is taken with which of these drug classes?

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because hypotension is not a common effect of long-term corticosteroid therapy. Corticosteroids can cause fluid retention and sodium retention, which can lead to hypertension, not hypotension.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect because muscle weakness is not the most impactful effect of long-term corticosteroid therapy on the patient's recovery. Corticosteroids can cause muscle wasting and loss of muscle mass, which can affect the patient's mobility and strength, but not as much as delayed wound healing.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect because osteoporosis is not the most impactful effect of long-term corticosteroid therapy on the patient's recovery. Corticosteroids can cause bone loss and increased risk of fractures, which can affect the patient's bone health and stability, but not as much as delayed wound healing.

Choice D reason: This is correct because delayed wound healing is the most impactful effect of long-term corticosteroid therapy on the patient's recovery. Corticosteroids can impair the inflammatory response and the immune system, which can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of infection. This can affect the patient's recovery time and quality.

Choice A reason: Tremors are a common sign of hypoglycemia, which occurs when the blood glucose level drops below 70 mg/dL. Hypoglycemia can cause shakiness, nervousness, and anxiety.

Choice B reason: Polydipsia, or excessive thirst, is not a manifestation of hypoglycemia, but rather of hyperglycemia, which occurs when the blood glucose level is too high. Hyperglycemia can cause dehydration, dry mouth, and increased urination.

Choice C reason: Confusion is another common sign of hypoglycemia, which can affect the brain's function and cognition. Hypoglycemia can cause dizziness, headache, difficulty concentrating, and impaired judgment.

Choice D reason: Polyphagia, or excessive hunger, is also not a manifestation of hypoglycemia, but rather of hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia can cause the body to break down muscle and fat for energy, resulting in weight loss and increased appetite.

Choice E reason: Polyuria, or excessive urination, is also not a manifestation of hypoglycemia, but rather of hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia can cause the kidneys to excrete excess glucose in the urine, leading to fluid loss and electrolyte imbalance.