Which information obtained by the nurse about a patient who has been taking prednisone 40 mg daily for 3 weeks is most important to report to the health care provider?
Patient stopped taking the medication 2 days ago.
Patient's blood pressure is 148/94 mm Hg.
Patient has bilateral 2+ pitting ankle edema.
Patient has not been taking the prescribed vitamin D.
The Correct Answer is B
Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication that can cause a range of side effects, including fluid retention, electrolyte imbalance, and increased blood pressure. A blood pressure reading of 148/94 mm Hg indicates hypertension, which may be related to the use of prednisone. It is essential to report this finding to the health care provider as it may require further evaluation and management, such as adjusting the medication dosage or initiating additional treatments to control blood pressure. The other information provided, such as stopping the medication, ankle edema, and not taking prescribed vitamin D, is relevant but does not pose an immediate threat to the patient's health compared to uncontrolled hypertension.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The client's symptoms of bounding peripheral pulses, weight gain, pitting edema, and moist crackles bilaterally suggest fluid volume overload or fluid retention. Furosemide (Lasix) is a loop diuretic that helps to promote diuresis and reduce fluid volume. Administering the medication promptly can help address the client's symptoms and alleviate the fluid overload.
Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
The nurse explains that immobilizing a fracture will:
- Help align the bone fragments and reduce movement, which is crucial for proper healing. Immobilization can help maintain the stability of the fracture site, allowing the bones to knit together and heal.
- Help to minimize movement and subsequent pain. It provides support and reduces stress on the injured area, which can help alleviate discomfort and promote a more comfortable healing process.
- Help to minimize movement and reduce the risk of fat globules from bone marrow entering the bloodstream and causing a fat embolism, a potentially serious complication.
Preventing blood clots, preventing malignant hyperthermia, and immobilizing a fracture are not directly related. Preventing blood clots typically involves other measures such as early mobilization, elevation, and medication to prevent deep vein thrombosis. Malignant hyperthermia is a rare, potentially life-threatening reaction to certain medications used during anesthesia, and immobilization does not directly prevent it.
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