The practical nurse (PN) is preparing a client for discharge who receives a prescription for oral prednisone to treat a severe allergic reaction. Which teaching about medication administration should the PN reinforce?

Taking oral prednisone with food helps to minimize gastrointestinal side effects such as stomach irritation and upset. Food acts as a protective barrier for the stomach lining, reducing the risk of irritation caused by the medication. Additionally, taking prednisone with food can help improve its absorption and distribution in the body.

The other options mentioned are incorrect:

A- "Take on an empty stomach": This is incorrect because taking prednisone on an empty stomach can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. It is generally recommended to take prednisone with food to minimize these side effects.

B- "Take before bedtime": This is incorrect as there is no specific timing requirement for taking prednisone before bedtime. The timing of prednisone administration should be based on the individual's needs and the instructions provided by the healthcare provider.

C- "Take only as needed": This is incorrect because prednisone is typically prescribed with specific dosing instructions. It is important for the client to follow the prescribed dosing schedule and not take it "as needed" unless instructed otherwise by the healthcare provider.

To identify the potential source of the client's new-onset confusion and decreased appetite, the nurse can use the following assessment techniques:

• Ask to see the client's list of home medications: This can help identify any medications that may contribute to confusion or appetite changes.
• Determine if the client has recently lost a loved one: Emotional distress, such as grief from a recent loss, can contribute to changes in mental status and appetite.
• Measure the client's vital signs: Vital signs can provide important information about the client's overall health status and help identify any abnormalities that may be contributing to the symptoms.
• Perform a 12-lead electrocardiogram: This can help assess the client's cardiac function and detect any cardiac-related causes for the symptoms.
• Ask about the client's last bowel movement: Changes in bowel habits can sometimes be indicative of underlying issues affecting appetite and overall health.
• Measure the client's abdominal circumference: This can help assess for any abdominal distension or changes that may be related to the client's symptoms.

Incorrect answers

• Collecting a sputum and urine culture and sensitivities and having the client ambulate across the room are not directly related to identifying the potential source of confusion and decreased appetite in this case.