A nurse is reviewing the medication administration record of a client who has rheumatoid arthritis and is 1 day postoperative following a left total hip arthroplasty. Which of the following medications places the client at risk for delayed wound healing?

A. Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor used to reduce gastric acid production and prevent ulcers. It does not impair wound healing and is commonly used perioperatively to protect the gastrointestinal tract, especially in clients taking NSAIDs or steroids. B. Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside used to improve heart contractility and manage conditions such as heart failure or atrial fibrillation. It does not affect tissue repair or wound healing. C. Morphine is an opioid analgesic used for pain control. While it can cause side effects such as respiratory depression, constipation, and sedation, it does not directly delay wound healing. D. Prednisone is a corticosteroid that suppresses the immune system and inhibits the inflammatory response, which is essential for normal wound healing. It can decrease collagen synthesis, impair tissue regeneration, and increase the risk of infection. Clients taking corticosteroids, especially those with chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, are therefore at increased risk for delayed wound healing, particularly after surgery.