Which of the following should be monitored for patients under cortisone management?

Monitoring blood sugar levels is essential for patients under cortisone management because cortisone, a type of corticosteroid, can affect glucose metabolism. These medications can induce insulin resistance, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. This is particularly important in patients who may already have diabetes or are at risk for developing diabetes due to the steroid treatment. Regularly checking blood sugar levels helps in identifying any hyperglycemic episodes early on, allowing for timely intervention and management of potential complications associated with elevated glucose levels.

While monitoring cholesterol levels, calcium levels, and heart rate is important in the overall health management of patients, these are not the primary concerns directly associated with cortisone therapy. Cortisone can affect the body’s response to insulin and glucose, making blood sugar a key parameter to monitor.