Question

A client experiencing an asthmatic attack is prescribed methylprednisolone intravenously. What action should the nurse take?

A) Aspirates for blood return before injecting the medication
B) Assesses fasting blood glucose levels
C) Encourages the client to decrease caloric intake due to increased appetite
D) Informs the client to limit fluid intake due to fluid retention

Answer 1

A nurse should assess fasting blood glucose levels when administering methylprednisolone intravenously to an asthmatic client, especially if the client has a pre-existing condition such as diabetes.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a client experiencing an asthmatic attack is prescribed methylprednisolone intravenously, the nurse should monitor the patient's response to the medication and be aware of potential side effects. Methylprednisolone, a corticosteroid, helps to reduce inflammation in the airways and improve breathing.

However, one action that is particularly important is to assess fasting blood glucose levels, as corticosteroids can cause an increase in blood glucose levels. This is essential, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions like diabetes, as mentioned in the clinical focus case where John has both asthma and type 2 diabetes. While administering intravenous medications, it is also standard practice to aspirate for blood return before injecting to ensure the IV line is correctly placed and to avoid injecting the medication into the tissue.