A nurse is assessing a client who is taking beclomethasone. Which of the following findings is the priority to report to the provider?
Explanation & Rationale
A. "White coating in the mouth": A white coating in the mouth is a possible sign of oral candidiasis (thrush), a fungal infection that can occur with inhaled corticosteroids like beclomethasone. This is the priority to report to the provider, as it may require treatment with antifungal medications to prevent further complications. B. "Nausea": Nausea can be a side effect of many medications, but it is not as urgent or specific as the risk of developing an infection like oral candidiasis. It should be reported, but it is not the priority. C. "Myalgia": Myalgia (muscle pain) could be a side effect of corticosteroid use, but it is not as urgent as the possibility of a fungal infection in the mouth. The nurse should still monitor and report it, but it is not the priority concern. D. "Headache": Headache can be a common side effect of many medications, including corticosteroids, but it is generally not a critical issue unless it is severe or persistent. It should be monitored, but it is not the priority to report compared to the risk of oral candidiasis.