A patient with a spinal cord injury was given IV Decadron (dexamethasone) after arriving in the emergency department. The patient also has a history of hypoglycemia. During the hospital stay, the nurse would expect to see which response to this medication?

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Dexamethasone is a steroid medication that can cause hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar levels) in some patients. Patients with a history of hypoglycemia may be at increased risk for this side effect. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the patient's blood glucose levels closely and be prepared to manage any episodes of hyperglycemia that may occur.

A Patient with a Spinal Cord Injury Was Given IV