Prednisone/D.C/NO taper?

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Hey everyone,

I was doing some practice questions in preparation for the NCLEX. I came across a rationale that said it is not necessary to taper prednisone if it has been prescribed for short term use. In that specific question, the patient had been taking it for 5 days. And during the the 5th day, it was to be d/c.

I've never heard of this before. Is this accurate?

Thank you

:)

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Yes. Prednisone only needs to be tapered for long term use. I remember seeing that same question in one of my practice tests. :yes:

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Thanks for your response. If anyone knows the time frame, that would be appreciated!

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Specializes in ICU/CCU.

i guess this comes from Kaplan. lol. yes, for ppl with Addison dz , they must use steroid for the rest of their life. It's dangerous to stop me rite away. But for those who have ...inflammation such as sore throat or sinusitis (for example) using predisone along with other meds, usually scheduled for 5-10 days. it does not matter. I mean we can stop it when the prescribed med is ddone. Please correct me if im wrong. thx

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Specializes in Medical and general practice now LTC.

Correct, if on short term doesn't need tapering off. Long term needs tapering off so the body starts making it's own again

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This is good stuff to know!! I can see it being on the NCLEX as a teaching question! Thank you!

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