a nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for prednisone. which of the following instructions…
a nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for prednisone. which of the following instructions should the nurse include? (select all that apply.)\n\n- reduce the dose during periods of stress.\n- discontinue the medication gradually.\n- report illness or infection.\n- increase intake of calcium and vitamin d.\n- monitor for manifestations of gastric bleeding.
Answer
Brief Explanations:
- Prednisone is a corticosteroid; stress requires increased dose, not reduced, as the body needs more cortisol-like support.
- Gradual discontinuation prevents adrenal insufficiency, as sudden stop shocks the adrenal glands.
- Prednisone suppresses immunity, so illness/infection must be reported promptly.
- It reduces bone density, so extra calcium/vitamin D supports bone health.
- It irritates the gastric mucosa, so monitoring for bleeding (e.g., black stools) is critical.
Answer:
B. Discontinue the medication gradually. C. Report illness or infection. D. Increase intake of calcium and vitamin D. E. Monitor for manifestations of gastric bleeding.