What should a female client taking fludrocortisone monitor at home?

Fludrocortisone is a synthetic mineralocorticoid that is often prescribed to help manage conditions such as adrenal insufficiency by increasing sodium reabsorption and promoting potassium excretion. When considering what a female client should monitor at home while taking fludrocortisone, it is crucial to focus on weight gain.

One of the notable side effects of fludrocortisone is fluid retention, which can lead to weight gain and edema. Monitoring weight regularly can help determine if the medication is causing significant changes in fluid balance, which might require medical intervention or dosage adjustment. Weight changes can be an early indicator of potential complications such as hypertension or heart failure due to fluid overload, making it an essential parameter for the patient to keep track of during treatment.

While blood pressure, heart rate, and blood glucose are also important to monitor in a broader context, the most direct and immediate concern related to fludrocortisone therapy is the potential for weight gain due to its mineralocorticoid effects. This makes monitoring weight the most relevant and focused assessment for a client on this medication.