A patient with a spinal cord injury was given IV dexamethasone (Decadron) after arriving in the emergency department. What assessment finding should the nurse attribute to the steroid medication?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Dexamethasone is a glucocorticoid steroid medication that can reduce inflammation and swelling around the spinal cord. This can lead to improvement in neurological function and lessening of spinal shock symptoms such as hypotension and bradycardia. Urinary retention and muscle spasms are not typical side effects of dexamethasone. Hypoglycemia may be a side effect of dexamethasone but is not the most expected finding in a patient with a spinal cord injury receiving this medication.

A Patient with a Spinal Cord Injury Was Given IV