Adrenocortical agents Flashcards
1
Q
Gluococorticoids
A
- suppresses the immune system, just like other steroids
- can cause an increase in blood glucose
Uses:
- short-term treatment of many inflammatory disorders
- relieve comfort
- gives the body a chance to heal from the effects of inflammation
Ex:
- beclomethasone (Beclovent)
- budesonide (Rhinocort, Entocort EC)
- cortisone
- hydrocortisone (Cortef)
- prednisolone
- prednisone
2
Q
Nursing responsibilities (Glucocorticoids)
A
Assessment:
-check history, vitals, weight
Contraindications:
-Severe infections due to its suppressive effects on the immune system
Monitor effectiveness
Pt teaching
- DON’T stop medication suddenly!!!
- infection control measures
- drug effects & side effects to report
Document
3
Q
Mineralocorticoids
A
Actions:
- holds sodium as well as water
- causes excretion of potassium
Uses
- primary insufficiency: the problem is in the adrenal cortex itself
- secondary insufficiency: a problem from somewhere else in the body that AFFECTS the adrenal cortex
Ex: fludrocortisone (Florinef), hydrocortisone (Cortef)
4
Q
Nursing responsibilities
A
SIMILAR TO THE PREVIOUS ONE
- make sure that their electrolytes are within normal levels
- hypernatremia can cause confusion
- hypokalemia can cause weakness
