A patient taking long-term oral corticosteroids (prednisolone 10mg daily for rheumatoid arthritis) is scheduled for elective hip replacement surgery. ...

Question

A patient taking long-term oral corticosteroids (prednisolone 10mg daily for rheumatoid arthritis) is scheduled for elective hip replacement surgery. What is the most important consideration regarding their steroid medication during the peri-operative period?

Accepted Answer

Administer high-dose intravenous hydrocortisone cover

Answer

Stop steroids 1 week before surgery

Answer

Double the usual dose on the day of surgery

Answer

Continue usual dose unless signs of adrenal suppression

Answer

Switch to an equivalent dose of dexamethasone

ukmla MCQ (SBA): Peri-operative Steroid Cover

A patient taking long-term oral corticosteroids (prednisolone 10mg daily for rheumatoid arthritis) is scheduled for elective hip replacement surgery. What is the most important consideration regarding their steroid medication during the peri-operative period?