Question

A client is started on long-term corticosteroid therapy for an autoimmune disorder. Which statement by the client indicates the need for more teaching by the nurse?

A
"I will be sure to eat foods that are high in potassium."
B
"I will keep a record of my weight each week."
C
"The medication needs to be taken with food."
D
"For 1 week each month I will stop taking the medication."

Answer 1

The statement indicating the need for more teaching about long-term corticosteroid therapy is D, where the client plans to stop taking the medication for one week each month, which can lead to withdrawal symptoms and disease exacerbation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The subject of the question focuses on the understanding of long-term corticosteroid therapy for autoimmune disorders and identifies a client's statement that indicates a need for further education. The correct answer is D, "For 1 week each month I will stop taking the medication." Corticosteroids should not be abruptly stopped without medical supervision because they can cause withdrawal symptoms and an exacerbation of the disease.


Gradual tapering is often necessary if the decision is made to discontinue the therapy. Statements A ("I will be sure to eat foods that are high in potassium."), B ("I will keep a record of my weight each week."), and C ("The medication needs to be taken with food.") are correct and demonstrate understanding of how to manage potential side effects and proper usage of corticosteroids.