The client with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed prednisone, a glucocorticoid, for an acute episode of pain. The client asks the nurse, “Why can’t I be on this forever since it helps the pain so...

The client with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed prednisone, a glucocorticoid, for an acute episode of pain. The client asks the nurse, “Why can’t I be on this forever since it helps the pain so much?” Which statement is the nurse’s best response?

1. “The medication will cause you to have a buffalo hump or moon face.”

2. “The medication has long-term side effects, such as osteoporosis.”

3. “If you continue taking the medication, it may cause an addisonian crisis.”

4. “There are other medications that can be prescribed to help the pain.”