Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 80%
Simulated
A nurse is reviewing the medical history of a client who is to start taking prednisone. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a contraindication to prednisone therapy?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: Has a systemic fungal infection. Prednisone is a corticosteroid that suppresses the immune system, making the body more susceptible to fungal infections. Therefore, having a systemic fungal infection would be a contraindication to prednisone therapy as it could worsen the existing infection.
A: Prior episode of kidney stones - This is not a contraindication to prednisone therapy.
C: History of asthma - Prednisone is commonly used to manage asthma, so having a history of asthma does not contraindicate its use.
D: Taking levothyroxine orally - Levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone replacement medication and does not directly interact with prednisone.
A: Prior episode of kidney stones - This is not a contraindication to prednisone therapy.
C: History of asthma - Prednisone is commonly used to manage asthma, so having a history of asthma does not contraindicate its use.
D: Taking levothyroxine orally - Levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone replacement medication and does not directly interact with prednisone.