Question

A nurse administers betamethasone to a client who is at 33 weeks gestation to stimulate fetal lung maturity. Which planning care for the newborn, which of the following conditions should the nurse identify as an adverse effect of this medication?

A. Hyperthermia
B. Decreased blood glucose
C. Rapid pulse rate
D. Irritability

Answer 1

Administering betamethasone to a pregnant client can cause decreased blood glucose levels in the newborn, which is an adverse effect a nurse should anticipate when planning postnatal care.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a nurse administers betamethasone, a corticosteroid medication, to a pregnant client at 33 weeks gestation, the purpose is to stimulate fetal lung maturity, particularly in the event that a preterm birth is anticipated. Betamethasone helps accelerate the production of surfactant in the fetus's lungs, reducing the risk of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). However, there are potential adverse effects on the newborn related to betamethasone use in mothers. The caregiver should plan for possible conditions such as B. Decreased blood glucose, which is a known adverse effect of corticosteroid use in the newborn. Hyperthermia, rapid pulse rate, and irritability are not commonly associated as adverse effects of prenatal betamethasone exposure.