Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Nursing Management: Diabetes Mellitus Related

Review Lewis's Medical Surgical Nursing in Canada, 5th Edition - Nursing Management: Diabetes Mellitus related questions and content

A patient with type 2 diabetes that is well-controlled with metformin develops an allergic rash to an antibiotic and the health care provider prescribes prednisone. Which of the following information should the nurse anticipate while the patient is taking the prednisone?

  • A. A diet higher in calories
  • B. Administration of insulin
  • C. Development of acute hypoglycemia
  • D. Appearance of a rash caused by metformin-prednisone interactions
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Glucose levels increase when patients are taking corticosteroids, and insulin may be required to control blood glucose. Hypoglycemia is not an adverse effect of prednisone. Rashes are not an adverse effect caused by taking metformin and prednisone simultaneously. The patient may have an increased appetite when taking prednisone but will not need a diet that is higher in calories.