The nurse is caring for a client who works night shift from 22:00 to 06:00 and normally sleeps from 08:00 (8 AM) until 16:00 (4 PM) each day.
The nurse should teach this client to take the prescribed corticosteroid at what time of the day?
08:00.
22:00.
06:00.
16:00.
The Correct Answer is C
This is because cortisol exhibits a proper 24-h circadian rhythm that affects the cardiovascular system and other organs. Cortisol levels are normally low at the beginning of sleep and high at the moment of awakening. Taking corticosteroids at this time mimics the natural cortisol rhythm and may reduce side effects such as adrenal suppression, sleep disturbances and cardiovascular complications.
Choice A is wrong because taking corticosteroids at 08:00 may not coincide with the client’s natural cortisol peak and may cause insomnia or unpleasant dreams.
Choice B is wrong because taking corticosteroids at 22:00 may disrupt the client’s sleep quality and increase the risk of nocturnal hypertension.
Choice D is wrong because taking corticosteroids at 16:00 may interfere with the client’s natural cortisol decline and cause hyperglycemia or dyslipidemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This is because somatropin is a growth hormone that can cause slipped capital femoral epiphysis, a condition where the head of the femur slips off the neck of the bone and causes severe pain and disability. The prescriber should be notified immediately if this occurs.
Choice B is wrong because upper respiratory infection lasting more than 6 days is not a serious adverse effect of somatropin and does not require immediate attention from the prescriber.
Choice C is wrong because dry skin accompanied by pruritus is not a common or serious side effect of somatropin and may be due to other causes.
Choice D is wrong because nosebleeds are not a common or serious side effect of somatropin and may be due to other causes.
Normal ranges for growth hormone levels are 0.4 to 10 ng/mL for males and 1 to 14 ng/mL for females.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Prednisone is a glucocorticoid that suppresses the production of natural cortisol by the adrenal glands. Taking prednisone on alternate days allows the adrenal glands to recover and produce some cortisol on the days without prednisone.
Choice B is wrong because prednisone does not eliminate adverse side effects, but may cause some such as weight gain, fluid retention, increased blood pressure, increased blood glucose, and increased risk of infection.
Choice C is wrong because there is no evidence of steroid tolerance, which means that higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect.
Choice D is wrong because prednisone does not prolong therapeutic effects, but may decrease them over time due to feedback inhibition of cortisol secretion.
Normal ranges for cortisol are 6 to 23 mcg/dL in the morning and 2 to 11 mcg/dL in the afternoon.
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