A patient with medical history including COPD and T2DM is being treated for pneumonia. The treatment includes IV corticosteroids and antibiotics.

Question

The nurse notices that even though patient's pneumonia has resolved he has an elevated blood sugar. What is the best explanation for the elevated blood sugar?

A. Antibiotics given for pneumonia have caused the increase in glucose levels

B. His Type 2 diabetes has transformed into Type 1 diabetes

C. The corticosteroids given may cause increase glucose levels

D. The hypoxia caused by patient's COPD has increased the need for insulin

Answer 1

Answer:

C. the corticosteroids given can increase blood glucose levels

Rationale:

Corticosteroids can antagonize the hypoglycemic effects of insulin which can cause elevated blood glucose levels