141k views
0 votes
A nurse is caring for a patient with rheumatoid arthritis and is prescribed Prednisone. Which of the following indicates the client is experiencing an adverse effect?

A) Increased Joint Mobility
B) Decreased White Blood Cell Count
C) Weight Loss
D) Moon-shaped Face

1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

The most likely adverse effect of Prednisone in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis from the provided options is a moon-shaped face, known as a Cushingoid appearance.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a patient with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed Prednisone, which is a steroid medication, and is experiencing an adverse effect, the most likely symptom from the options provided would be a moon-shaped face. This is known as 'Cushingoid appearance' and can occur as a side effect of long-term steroid use, such as Prednisone. Increased joint mobility would likely be a therapeutic effect of steroid use in RA, not an adverse effect. A decreased white blood cell count might occur with immunosuppressive drugs, but this is not the most characteristic side effect of steroids. Weight loss is generally not associated with steroid use; instead, patients may experience weight gain due to increased appetite. Therefore, a moon-shaped face would be an indicator of Prednisone's adverse effects.

User Kota Mori
by
8.3k points