The nurse is caring for a patient newly diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), who has an order for prednisone orally. When planning medication teaching, the nurse will plan to include which potential side effect of this medication?
Drowsiness
Hypertension
Weight loss
Skin thickening
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Drowsiness is not a typical side effect of prednisone. Prednisone can cause alertness and difficulty sleeping, making drowsiness an unlikely side effect. It is more commonly associated with medications that have sedative properties.
Choice B reason: Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a potential side effect of prednisone. Corticosteroids like prednisone can cause fluid retention and increase blood pressure. Patients taking prednisone should monitor their blood pressure regularly and discuss any significant changes with their healthcare provider.
Choice C reason: Weight loss is not a common side effect of prednisone. In fact, prednisone can cause weight gain due to increased appetite and fluid retention. Patients on prednisone should be mindful of their diet and exercise to manage potential weight changes.
Choice D reason: Skin thickening is not a typical side effect of prednisone. Corticosteroids can cause thinning of the skin with long-term use, rather than thickening. Patients should be aware of this potential side effect and take steps to protect their skin.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: The patient being increasingly drowsy and hard to arouse is an urgent finding that should be reported immediately. This condition may indicate intracranial bleeding or other severe complications related to extremely low platelet count (10,000/mm³) in idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Immediate medical intervention is required to prevent further deterioration.
Choice B reason: Red, raised purpura on the patient's feet and hands is a concerning finding indicative of significant thrombocytopenia, but it is not as immediately life-threatening as decreased consciousness. It should still be monitored and managed, but the priority is the patient's level of consciousness.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Encouraging the patient to rest in bed for most of the day may lead to further deconditioning and muscle weakness. While rest is important, balancing activity and rest is more beneficial for managing fatigue in chronic anemia.
Choice B reason: Administering a high-protein diet including caffeinated beverages to increase energy levels is not recommended. While a high-protein diet can support energy and muscle strength, caffeine may cause jitteriness and disrupt sleep, which can exacerbate fatigue.
Choice C reason: Assisting the patient with ADLs and encouraging frequent rest periods is appropriate for managing fatigue, weakness, and activity intolerance in chronic anemia. This approach helps the patient conserve energy while maintaining some level of activity to prevent deconditioning.
Choice D reason: Providing supplemental oxygen via face mask during vigorous exercises is not appropriate. Patients with chronic anemia should avoid vigorous exercises that could exacerbate fatigue and weakness. The focus should be on moderate, manageable activities with adequate rest.
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