What potential side effect should a nurse monitor for in a patient receiving prednisone?

When a patient is receiving prednisone, a corticosteroid, it is important for the nurse to monitor for hyperglycemia. Prednisone can increase blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis and reducing glucose uptake in tissues. This effect can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, especially in individuals with preexisting diabetes or those who may develop steroid-induced diabetes during therapy. Healthcare providers must vigilantly monitor blood glucose levels, as hyperglycemia can cause various complications if not managed appropriately.

In contrast, while hypoglycemia, weight loss, and hypotension can occur in different medical scenarios, they are not typical side effects associated with the use of prednisone. Instead, patients on corticosteroids often experience weight gain and increased blood pressure due to fluid retention and increased appetite, highlighting why monitoring for hyperglycemia is critical in this context.