A 46-year-old male patient with dermatomyositis is receiving long-term prednisone (Deltasone) therapy. Which assessment finding by the nurse is most important to report to the health care provider?
a. The blood glucose is 112 mg/dL.
b. The patient has painful hematuria.
c. Acne is noted on the patient's face.
d. The patient has an increased appetite.
ANS: B
Corticosteroid use is associated with an increased risk for infection, so the nurse should report the urinary tract symptoms immediately to the health care provider. The increase in blood glucose, increased appetite, and acne are also adverse effects of corticosteroid use but do not need diagnosis and treatment as rapidly as the probable urinary tract infection.
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A nurse assesses a client who is prescribed alosetron (Lotronex). Which assessment question should the nurse ask this client?
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Patience is 29 years old and has been HIV positive for 9 years. She has remained asymptomatic and is not taking antiretroviral medication
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You are caring for a postoperative heart transplant patient who is receiving azathioprine (Imuran). The patient asks you what this medication is for. What would your answer to this patient be?
A) Azathioprine decreases the risk of thrombus formation. B) Azathioprine ensures adequate cardiac output. C) Azathioprine increases the number of white blood cells. D) Azathioprine minimizes rejection.
A woman is in the first stage of labor. The nurse would encourage her to assume which position to facilitate the progress of labor?
A) Supine B) Lithotomy C) Upright D) Knee–chest