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 of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Dexamethasone can cause hyperglycemia by increasing insulin resistance and decreasing glucose uptake in the peripheral tissues. Patients with a history of hypoglycemia are at increased risk of developing hyperglycemia when given dexamethasone. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the patient's blood glucose levels regularly and be prepared to intervene if hyperglycemia occurs.

A Patient with a Spinal Cord Injury Was Given IV