When administering corticosteroids, which is a common nursing intervention?

Monitoring for signs of infection is a critical nursing intervention when administering corticosteroids. Corticosteroids have immunosuppressive properties, which can reduce the body’s ability to fight off infections. As the immune response is weakened, there is an increased risk of infections, particularly opportunistic infections that the body would typically fend off effectively. Therefore, vigilant observation for symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, or any other signs indicative of infection is essential to ensure timely intervention and management.

While monitoring liver function tests, assessing skin for rashes, and encouraging a high-potassium diet can be relevant in various therapeutic contexts, they are not as directly tied to the immediate risks posed by corticosteroid therapy as monitoring for infections. For example, while some corticosteroids can impact liver function or potassium levels, these considerations are not universally applicable to all patients receiving corticosteroids. The focus, particularly in the context of this question, remains on the heightened risk of infection due to the drug's immunosuppressive effects.