Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 72%
Simulated
A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who has a new prescription for prednisone to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Which of the following statements should indicate to the nurse that the client understands the teaching?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: "I will report a sore throat to my provider." This indicates understanding because prednisone can suppress the immune system, making the client more susceptible to infections like a sore throat. Reporting this symptom promptly is crucial to prevent complications.
Incorrect choices:
A: Increasing sodium intake is not necessary and can actually be harmful due to prednisone's potential to cause fluid retention and high blood pressure.
B: Prednisone is typically taken with food to minimize stomach upset, so taking it on an empty stomach is not recommended.
C: Weight gain, not weight loss, is a common side effect of prednisone due to increased appetite and fluid retention.
In summary, choice D is correct as it demonstrates understanding of an important side effect of prednisone, while the other choices are incorrect due to potential misinformation or misunderstanding of the medication's effects.
Incorrect choices:
A: Increasing sodium intake is not necessary and can actually be harmful due to prednisone's potential to cause fluid retention and high blood pressure.
B: Prednisone is typically taken with food to minimize stomach upset, so taking it on an empty stomach is not recommended.
C: Weight gain, not weight loss, is a common side effect of prednisone due to increased appetite and fluid retention.
In summary, choice D is correct as it demonstrates understanding of an important side effect of prednisone, while the other choices are incorrect due to potential misinformation or misunderstanding of the medication's effects.