Care of Clients on Steroid Therapy

1. monitor vital signs
2. monitor serum electrolytes and blood glucose level
3. monitor for hypokalemia and hyperglycemia
4. monitor intake and output and weight and for edema
5. monitor for hypertension
6. assess for changes in muscle strength
7. instruct the client to take at mealtime or with food
8. advise client to eat foods high in potassium
9. instruct client to avoid individuals with respiratory infections
10. inform all health care providers of the medication regimen
11. report signs and symptoms of medication overdose or Cushing's syndrome, incuding moon face, puffy eyelids, edema in the feet, increased bruising, dizziness, bleeding, and menstrual irregularities.
12. client may need additional doses during periods of stress, such as surgery.
13. DO NOT abruptly stop the medication because it may cause sever adrenal insufficiency.
14. consult with physician before receiving vaccinations.
15. report signs of infection, muscle aches, sudden weight gain, or headache.


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