Author Question: What is the rationale for monitoring vital signs of patients receiving corticosteroids? a. ... (Read 78 times)

ereecah · **on:** Jul 24, 2018

What is the rationale for monitoring vital signs of patients receiving corticosteroids?

a. Orthostatic hypotension
b. Malignant hyperthermia
c. Infection
d. Hyperglycemia

Question 2

A patient on a high dosage of corticosteroids over a period of time may develop which type of psychiatric complication?

a. Lethargy
b. Psychotic behaviors
c. Manic phases
d. Anxiety attacks

mistyjohnson · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 24, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Patients receiving corticosteroids are more susceptible to infection, and fever is often an early indicator of infection. Glucocorticoids, however, sometimes suppress a febrile response to infection. Orthostatic hypotension is not a common adverse effect of treatment with corticosteroids. Malignant hyperthermia is an anesthetic-related complication. Hyperglycemia is a common adverse effect of treatment with corticosteroids, but it is not assessed by vital signs.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
A patient receiving a higher dosage of corticosteroids is susceptible to psychotic behavioral changes. The most susceptible patient is one with previous histories of mental dysfunction. Perform a baseline assessment of the patient's ability to respond rationally to the environment and the diagnosis of the underlying disease. Lethargy, mania, and anxiety are not common complications of treatment with corticosteroids.