If a patient taking hydrocortisone for asthma begins taking cholestyramine, what should the nurse do?

When a patient is taking hydrocortisone, a corticosteroid used to manage inflammation associated with conditions such as asthma, and begins therapy with cholestyramine, it is important to recognize that cholestyramine can affect the absorption of certain medications, including corticosteroids. Cholestyramine functions as a bile acid sequestrant, which can bind to various drugs in the gastrointestinal tract and significantly reduce their absorption and effectiveness.

Holding the cholestyramine is the appropriate action in this situation because continuing this medication while the patient is on hydrocortisone may lead to subtherapeutic levels of hydrocortisone in the patient's system. This could exacerbate asthma symptoms or lead to adrenal insufficiency, as the body may not receive the necessary anti-inflammatory effects of the hydrocortisone if its absorption is compromised.

The decision to hold cholestyramine prioritizes the management of the patient’s asthma by ensuring that hydrocortisone remains effective, thereby maintaining better control of the patient’s condition. After assessing the situation, a comprehensive approach could involve adjusting the treatment plan or timing of medication administration, but the immediate step is to withhold cholestyramine.