Question

which side effects should the nurse monitor for a client who is receiving dexamethasone following neurosurgery? (select all that apply.)

a delayed incisional wound healing.

b serum hemoglobin level of 9 mg/dl.

c increased weight gain.

d decreased appetite.

e mood swings.

f serum glucose level of 65 mg/dl.

Explanation:

• Option A: Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid, which can impair wound healing (delayed incisional wound healing is a possible side effect).
• Option B: Dexamethasone does not typically cause a low hemoglobin level (9 mg/dL is low, but this is not a common side effect of dexamethasone).
• Option C: Corticosteroids like dexamethasone can cause fluid retention and increased appetite, leading to weight gain.
• Option D: Dexamethasone usually increases appetite, not decreases it.
• Option E: Mood swings (including agitation, anxiety, etc.) are common psychological side effects of corticosteroids like dexamethasone.
• Option F: Dexamethasone typically increases blood glucose (hyperglycemia), not causes hypoglycemia (65 mg/dL is normal to slightly low; hypoglycemia is not a typical side effect here).

Answer:

A. Delayed incisional wound healing, C. Increased weight gain, E. Mood swings