What possible side effect must be monitored when administering steroids to a patient?

Administering steroids can lead to various physiological changes in the body, one of which is the potential for increased blood glucose levels. This occurs because steroids can induce insulin resistance and promote gluconeogenesis—a process in which glucose is produced from non-carbohydrate sources—resulting in elevated blood sugar concentrations. Monitoring blood glucose levels is crucial for patients receiving steroid therapy, especially those with pre-existing conditions like diabetes, as it helps prevent complications such as hyperglycemia and its associated health issues.

While other side effects like nausea and vomiting, decreased heart rate, and allergic reactions may occur with various medications, they are not specifically associated with steroid administration in the same way that changes in blood glucose are. This makes monitoring glucose levels particularly important when treating patients with steroids.