What should a nurse teach a client starting corticosteroid treatment for rheumatoid arthritis?

Weight gain is a common effect associated with corticosteroid therapy, especially in the context of chronic use for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Corticosteroids can cause fluid retention and increased appetite, both of which contribute to weight gain. Educating clients about this potential side effect is important for setting realistic expectations and encouraging them to monitor their weight while on treatment.

In contrast, expecting immediate symptom improvement may lead to disappointment, as corticosteroids may take time to show effects, especially in chronic inflammatory conditions. It's also not accurate to claim that there are no potential side effects, since corticosteroids are known to have a range of side effects, including mood changes, increased susceptibility to infection, and potential impacts on bone density. Lastly, teaching clients they can stop taking the medication once they feel better is misleading; corticosteroids often need to be tapered off to avoid withdrawal symptoms and should not be discontinued abruptly without medical guidance.