Author Question: Which laboratory result will the nurse monitor to determine whether prednisone (Deltasone) has been ... (Read 126 times)

jjjetplane · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

Which laboratory result will the nurse monitor to determine whether prednisone (Deltasone) has been effective for a 30-year-old patient with an acute exacerbation of rheumatoid arthritis?

a. Blood glucose test
b. Liver function tests
c. C-reactive protein level
d. Serum electrolyte levels

Question 2

Which information will the nurse include when preparing teaching materials for patients with exacerbations of rheumatoid arthritis?

a. Affected joints should not be exercised when pain is present.
b. Application of cold packs before exercise may decrease joint pain.
c. Exercises should be performed passively by someone other than the patient.
d. Walking may substitute for range-of-motion (ROM) exercises on some days.

Jadwiga9 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
C-reactive protein is a marker for inflammation, and a decrease would indicate that the corticosteroid therapy was effective. Blood glucose and serum electrolyte levels will also be monitored to check for side effects of prednisone. Liver function is not routinely monitored in patients receiving corticosteroids.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Cold application is helpful in reducing pain during periods of exacerbation of RA. Because the joint pain is chronic, patients are instructed to exercise even when joints are painful. ROM exercises are intended to strengthen joints and improve flexibility, so passive ROM alone is not sufficient. Recreational exercise is encouraged but is not a replacement for ROM exercises.