A client who has dermatomyositis (DM) and is receiving high-dose steroids needs surgery for an unrelated problem. The surgeon orders the steroids to be stopped at midnight the night before surgery. The most appropriate action by the nurse is to
A) call the physician and ask to have the order clarified.
B) consult with the pharmacist about tapering the dose instead.
C) discontinue the steroid because the client will be NPO.
D) speak to the physician and explain concerns with this order.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Clients taking high-dose steroids must never change a dose on their own, and their dose must be tapered slowly because the body cannot respond quickly to changes in cortisol levels. Discontinuing the steroids could precipitate an addisonian crisis. The nurse must speak to the physician and relay his/her concerns about this order.

A Client Who Has Dermatomyositis (DM) and Is Receiving High-Dose