Test Bank Pharmacology and the Nursing Process Related

Review Test Bank Pharmacology and the Nursing Process related questions and content

The nurse is reviewing the medication history of a new preoperative patient who is nil by mouth (NPO). The nurse notes that the patient has been on long-term oral steroid therapy. The nurse understands that which of the following is the reason that steroids cannot be abruptly stopped?

  • A. Higher steroid levels are needed during
  • B. Malignant hypertension will occur.
  • C. Respiratory failure will result.
  • D. Malignant hyperthermia will result.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because abruptly stopping steroids can lead to adrenal insufficiency due to suppression of the adrenal glands. This can result in a sudden drop in cortisol levels, which are essential for various physiological functions. Patients on long-term steroid therapy need a gradual taper to allow the adrenal glands to resume cortisol production. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly relate to the physiological effects of stopping steroids abruptly.