Question

The nurse is completing a health history review of a client who has received long term medical steroid therapy for Lupus. Which client data does the nurse recognize as potentially linked to the steroid use? Select all that apply.

A. A 16-pound (7.3-kilogram) weight loss.
B. 3 infections over the course of the year.
C. Routine symptoms of nausea.
D. An increase in client blood pressure.
E. Acne noted on the forehead, cheeks, and back.

Answer 1

The nurse should recognize weight loss, infections, and increased blood pressure as potential side effects of long-term steroid use for Lupus.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should recognize the following client data as potentially linked to the long-term medical steroid therapy for Lupus:

• Weight loss: A 16-pound (7.3-kilogram) weight loss can be a result of steroid use due to its effect on metabolism.
• Infections: 3 infections over the course of a year indicate a compromised immune system, which can be a side effect of long-term steroid use.
• Increased blood pressure: Steroids can cause an increase in blood pressure.

Routine symptoms of nausea and acne on the forehead, cheeks, and back are not directly linked to steroid use in this case.