A client with an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis has type 2 diabetes that is controlled with diet and metformin (Glucophage). The health care provider orders prednisone to reduce inflammation in the colon. What would the nurse anticipate as part of the client's plan of care?

A client with an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis has type 2 diabetes that is controlled with diet and metformin (Glucophage). The health care provider orders prednisone to reduce inflammation in the colon. What would the nurse anticipate as part of the client's plan of care?

A client with an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis has type 2 diabetes that is controlled with diet and metformin (Glucophage). The health care provider orders prednisone to reduce inflammation in the colon. What would the nurse anticipate as part of the client's plan of care?



1. Increase in fiber and calories in daily diet
2. Increase in adverse side effects caused by the combination drug therapy
3. Add insulin therapy while on prednisone
4. More frequent monitoring of glycosolated hemoglobin levels

Rationale: (3)
The addition of insulin to the client's diabetic medication regime would be required because of prednisone, which in high doses increases the blood sugar. More frequent monitoring of glycosolated hemoglobin is unnecessary, but rather more frequent glucose monitoring while on the insulin. Taking the two medications together should not increase the likelihood of adverse effects. Prednisone will increase the appetite, so calories and fluids should be monitored to avoid weight gain and fluid retention. (Lewis, et al, 8 ed., p. 1222.)


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