A client receiving methylprednisolone sodium succinate (Solu-Medrol) should be instructed to report which adverse effect?

• A. Sort throat
• B. Fatigue
• C. Diarrhea
• D. Weight loss

Answer: (A)

Systemic corticosteroids suppress the immune system, so patients on methylprednisolone should be vigilant for signs of infection. A sore throat is an important early warning sign of possible infection (pharyngitis or other throat/systemic infections) that requires prompt evaluation, because infections can progress more quickly in someone taking steroids and may be masked by the medication. Early reporting allows timely treatment and reduces complications.

Other symptoms like fatigue, diarrhea, or weight loss can occur with steroids but are nonspecific and can have many causes; they don’t point as clearly to an infectious process needing immediate assessment.