A patient with type 1 diabetes was prescribed a glucocorticoid for COPD. Which will the nurse expect in this patient?

Choice A reason: Glucocorticoids can cause an increase in blood sugar by stimulating gluconeogenesis and inhibiting insulin action. Therefore, a patient with type 1 diabetes who is taking glucocorticoids will not have no change in blood sugar, but rather a rise in blood sugar. Choice B reason: Glucocorticoids can cause an increase in blood pressure by promoting sodium and water retention and increasing vascular reactivity. Therefore, a patient with type 1 diabetes who is taking glucocorticoids will not have a decrease in the blood pressure, but rather a possible increase in the blood pressure. Choice C reason: Glucocorticoids can cause an increase in blood sugar by stimulating gluconeogenesis and inhibiting insulin action. Therefore, a patient with type 1 diabetes who is taking glucocorticoids will have an increase in blood sugar. This is the correct statement that describes the expected effect of glucocorticoids in this patient. Choice D reason: Glucocorticoids can cause an increase in blood sugar by stimulating gluconeogenesis and inhibiting insulin action. Therefore, a patient with type 1 diabetes who is taking glucocorticoids will not have an increase in the need for carbohydrates, but rather a need for more insulin to control the blood sugar.