A patient taking steroids for an autoimmune disorder asks when ...

[Shelles]

A patient taking steroids for an autoimmune disorder asks when the weight loss in the legs is going to stop. What should the nurse realize the patient is experiencing?
 
  1. muscle wasting
  2. poor wound healing
  3. risk for compression fractures
  4. increased susceptibility to infections

Question 2

The nurse is assessing a female patient who has an abnormally high level of parathyroid hormone. Which assessment findings would be consistent with this diagnosis?
 
  Select all that apply.
  1. muscle atrophy
  2. muscle weakness
  3. diarrhea
  4. weight gain
  5. hypotension

[mjbamaung]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1
Long-term use of steroids can place a patient at risk for developing Cushing syndrome. One characteristic of this syndrome is muscle weakness and wasting, particularly in the extremities. Poor wound healing, risk for compression fractures, and increased susceptibility to infections are common in patients who are being treated with steroids. However, these problems would not manifest as weight loss in the limbs.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1, 2
Manifestations of hyperparathyroidism are related to hypercalcemia. Elevated calcium levels alter neural and muscular activity, leading to muscle atrophy and weakness. Diarrhea, weight gain, and hypotension are not manifestations of hyperparathyroidism .