Free NCLEX RN Questions on Health Promotion and Maintenance Related

Review Free NCLEX RN Questions on Health Promotion and Maintenance related questions and content

The nurse is planning discharge teaching for the parents of a child who sustained a head injury and who is now receiving tapering doses of dexamethasone. The nurse plans to make which statement to the parents?

  • A. This medication decreases the chance of infection.
  • B. This medication will be discontinued after two doses.
  • C. If your child's face becomes puffy, the medication dose needs to be increased.
  • D. This medication is tapered to decrease the chance of recurring swelling in the brain.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Dexamethasone sodium phosphate is a corticosteroid. The rebounding of cerebral edema is a side effect of dexamethasone sodium phosphate withdrawal if it is done abruptly. This medication decreases inflammation rather than infection. Facial edema is a common side effect that disappears when the medication is discontinued.