What common side effect should the nurse monitor in a child receiving prednisone?

In children receiving prednisone, mood swings are a common side effect that nurses should monitor closely. Prednisone is a corticosteroid that affects the body's hormone levels, particularly cortisol, and can result in a range of psychological effects. These mood changes can manifest as irritability, anxiety, or emotional instability, often due to the drug's impact on neurotransmitter systems and metabolic processes.

In addition to mood swings, other potential side effects of prednisone may occur, but they are not as closely associated with pediatric patients as mood alterations. Anorexia, for instance, can happen but is typically not one of the more pronounced side effects in children. Alopecia, or hair loss, is less common in pediatric patients taking prednisone and is usually not a primary concern. Weight loss is also not typical, as prednisone is often associated with weight gain due to increased appetite and fluid retention. Therefore, monitoring for mood swings is vital, as they can affect the child's emotional well-being and overall quality of life during treatment.