What is a common side effect of prednisone that nurses should educate their clients about?

Prednisone, a corticosteroid, has several common side effects that are important for nurses to educate clients about. One of the notable side effects is weight gain, which can occur due to increased appetite and changes in metabolism typically associated with corticosteroid use. Additionally, prednisone can lead to hypertension as it can cause fluid retention and affect electrolyte balance, ultimately increasing blood pressure. Another significant side effect to be aware of is hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, which can arise as corticosteroids may lead to an increase in potassium excretion through the kidneys.

Given that all these side effects—weight gain, hypertension, and hypokalemia—are potential outcomes of prednisone therapy, it is essential for nurses to inform patients about them. Awareness empowers clients to monitor their health and report any concerning symptoms to their healthcare provider.