Podcast
Questions and Answers
A patient is prescribed prednisone. Which of the following instructions is MOST important to include in the patient's education regarding potential side effects?
A patient is prescribed prednisone. Which of the following instructions is MOST important to include in the patient's education regarding potential side effects?
A patient taking a glucocorticoid is also prescribed an NSAID for pain relief. Which potential adverse effect should the nurse be MOST concerned about?
A patient taking a glucocorticoid is also prescribed an NSAID for pain relief. Which potential adverse effect should the nurse be MOST concerned about?
A patient has been on long-term glucocorticoid therapy and is experiencing signs of adrenal gland suppression. What is the MOST appropriate nursing intervention?
A patient has been on long-term glucocorticoid therapy and is experiencing signs of adrenal gland suppression. What is the MOST appropriate nursing intervention?
A patient on long-term prednisone therapy reports experiencing unexplained weight gain and fluid retention. Which of the following dietary recommendations is MOST appropriate?
A patient on long-term prednisone therapy reports experiencing unexplained weight gain and fluid retention. Which of the following dietary recommendations is MOST appropriate?
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A patient taking hydrocortisone reports experiencing muscle weakness and an irregular heartbeat. Which electrolyte imbalance should the nurse suspect?
A patient taking hydrocortisone reports experiencing muscle weakness and an irregular heartbeat. Which electrolyte imbalance should the nurse suspect?
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Flashcards
Glucocorticoids
Glucocorticoids
A class of steroid medications that decrease inflammation and suppress immune response.
Common glucocorticoids
Common glucocorticoids
Examples include prednisone, hydrocortisone, and dexamethasone.
Side effects of glucocorticoids
Side effects of glucocorticoids
Include bone loss, weight gain, fluid retention, and hyperglycemia.
Monitoring patients on glucocorticoids
Monitoring patients on glucocorticoids
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Tapering prednisone
Tapering prednisone
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Study Notes
Glucocorticoids
- Glucocorticoids are a crucial drug class for nursing students.
- Examples include prednisone, hydrocortisone, and dexamethasone.
- All these medications end with "-sone".
Mechanism of Action
- Glucocorticoids reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.
Side Effects
- Bone loss: A common side effect.
- Weight gain and fluid retention: A frequent consequence.
- Hyperglycemia: Elevated blood sugar levels.
- Hypokalemia: Low potassium levels, potentially life-threatening. Can result from excess aldosterone.
- Peptic ulcer disease: A risk due to glucocorticoid use.
- Infection: Immunosuppression increases risk.
- Adrenal gland suppression: The body may stop producing its own corticosteroids.
- Skin fragility: Increased risk of skin breakdown.
- Gastrointestinal (GI) upset: Possible nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.
Nursing Care
- Infection monitoring: Crucial due to immunosuppression.
- Peptic ulcer disease monitoring: Watch for coffee-ground emesis and tarry stools.
- Stress management: Patients may need higher doses during periods of stress.
- Bone health: Encourage Vitamin D and calcium supplements to prevent bone loss.
- NSAID interaction: Avoid NSAIDs with glucocorticoids, as they increase risk of GI bleeding and ulcers.
- Gradual discontinuation: Never abruptly stop prednisone. Taper the dose slowly.
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Description
This quiz focuses on glucocorticoids, a vital class of drugs for nursing students. It covers their mechanism of action, common side effects, and essential nursing care strategies. Understanding these medications is crucial for effective patient care.
