7 S’s of Steroid Precautions
The 7 S’s of Steroid Precautions can be summarized as:
1️⃣ Swollen – Water retention leading to weight gain.
- 🚨 Report sudden/excessive weight gain (1 lb/day or 2-3 lbs in a few days).
2️⃣ Sepsis – Increased risk of infections.
- 🚨 Low WBC, fever is a priority concern.
3️⃣ Sugar Increased – Causes hyperglycemia.
- 🩸 Monitor blood glucose, especially in diabetics.
4️⃣ Skinny – Muscle wasting, osteoporosis, fracture risk.
- 🦴 Ensure calcium & vitamin D intake.
5️⃣ Sight – Risk of cataracts.
- 👁️ Regular eye exams recommended.
6️⃣ Slowly Taper – NEVER stop abruptly!
- ⚠️ Stopping suddenly → adrenal crisis risk.
7️⃣ Stress or Surgery – Increase dose when needed.
- 🏥 Adjust dosage during illness or surgery.
This mnemonic helps remember essential steroid precautions, especially for exams like NCLEX and clinical practice! 😊
