In a home care setting, what is the nurse's main responsibility for a female client prescribed oral corticosteroids for Addison's disease?

In a home care setting for a female client prescribed oral corticosteroids for Addison's disease, the primary responsibility of the nurse is to supervise and monitor the administration of the drug. This is because corticosteroids play a crucial role in managing the hormone deficiencies associated with Addison's disease, and it is essential to ensure that the patient is taking the medication correctly and safely.

Monitoring administration involves ensuring that the patient understands the proper dosage, timing, and method of taking the medication. Additionally, the nurse must observe for any potential side effects or complications that can arise from corticosteroid use, such as changes in blood glucose levels, increased risk of infection, and potential mood changes. These evaluations help in providing timely interventions, ensuring the patient's safety, and facilitating effective disease management.

While teaching about dietary restrictions, performing daily weight checks, and scheduling regular blood tests are important aspects of overall care for a patient with Addison's disease, they are secondary to the immediate need to ensure proper medication management, particularly in the home care setting where the nurse may have limited time and resources. Hence, the supervision and monitoring of drug administration are critical for the client’s effective management and well-being.