ATI Critical Thinking 2 Test | 2023 | 65 Questions with 100% Correct Answers | Updated & Verified

A nurse is caring for a client who is diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and is prescribed dexamethasone (Prednisone). Which of the following indicates the client is experiencing an adverse effect of the medication? - Hyperglycemia.In this item, you need nursing knowledge of dexamethasone to recall adverse effects associated with the medication. This item requires foundational thinking because you only need to recall knowledge related to adverse effects of dexamethasone. Dexamethasone, a glucocorticoid, is a powerful anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant and is indicated for the treatment of multiple disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis. Adverse effects of dexamethasone increase with the dosage and duration of treatment and can include adrenal insufficiency, osteoporosis, infection, myopathy, fluid and electrolyte disturbances, cataracts, peptic ulcer disease, and iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome among others. Hyperglycemia, an elevated blood glucose level, is an adverse effect of dexamethasone. Both hyperglycemia and glycosuria can be manifested in clients who are taking dexamethasone because of its effect on the production and use of glucose. While collecting data on a client who is immobile, a nurse locates a reddened area of skin on the left scapula. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?