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

The nurse's responsibility in a home care setting for a female client prescribed oral corticosteroids for Addison's disease primarily involves supervising and monitoring the administration of the drug. In this context, it is crucial for the nurse to ensure that the client or family members understand the importance of adhering to the prescribed medication regimen, as corticosteroids are vital for managing Addison's disease and maintaining the body's balance of hormones.

Supervising the administration of the medication includes observing the dosage and timing to prevent complications associated with non-compliance or misuse, which are critical in a chronic condition like Addison's disease where hormone levels need to be carefully managed. Additionally, the nurse may assess the client's response to the medication, monitor for side effects, and provide support for any questions or concerns related to the treatment.

Although educating family members about side effects is important, the primary role of the nurse in this scenario is to ensure that the medication is taken correctly and consistently under supervision. The responsibilities of adjusting medication based on symptoms typically fall under the purview of the prescribing physician, who can make necessary changes based on clinical assessments and laboratory values. Administering the medication directly is less common in a home care setting, as patients or their caregivers are usually trained to manage self-administration.