The nurse is caring for a client taking long-term hydrocortisone replacement therapy.Which assessment finding indicates a masked infection?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Long-term use of hydrocortisone can decrease the body's immune response, leading to an increased risk of infections. However, the presence of fever may be masked by the anti-inflammatory effects of the medication, resulting in a low-grade oral temperature. Therefore, a low-grade oral temperature can signify a masked infection in a client taking long-term hydrocortisone replacement therapy. Choices A and B are not related to an infection and the presence of purulent drainage from a puncture wound would indicate an active infection rather than a masked infection.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client Taking Long-Term Hydrocortisone