A nurse is assisting with the plan of care for an older adult client who has a new prescription for transdermal clonidine. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the plan of care?

Choice A Reason:

"You will not become fatigued when you use assistive devices. “This statement might provide an unrealistic expectation. While assistive devices can help, they might still require physical effort and could potentially cause fatigue, especially during initial use or extended periods.

Choice B Reason:

"Plan to hire a home care aid to perform all of your ADLs." This statement is not appropriate.

While home care assistance can be beneficial, aiming to have someone perform all ADLs might limit the client's independence and ability to regain skills. The goal is often to support the client in performing ADLs independently whenever possible.

Choice C Reason:

"Install grab bars in your shower to assist with your balance." This statement is true. Installing grab bars in the shower can significantly enhance safety and stability during activities like showering, reducing the risk of falls for someone who might experience balance or mobility challenges following a CVA.

Choice D Reason:

"Place a towel in the shower to prevent slipping." This statement is inappropriate. While placing a towel might offer some traction, it might not provide sufficient stability or support, especially for someone with balance issues post-CVA. Grab bars offer more reliable support to prevent falls in the shower.

Choice A Reason:

Jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, is typically associated with liver dysfunction or conditions affecting the breakdown of red blood cells, not directly linked to Cushing's syndrome. While some liver abnormalities can be seen in Cushing's syndrome due to metabolic changes, jaundice is not a typical manifestation of this condition.

Choice B Reason:

Muscle rigidity is more commonly associated with conditions like Parkinson's disease, dystonia, or certain muscle disorders. In Cushing's syndrome, muscle weakness due to protein breakdown and muscle wasting is a more expected finding rather than muscle rigidity.

Choice C Reason:

Weight loss is incorrect. Weight gain, particularly in the central part of the body (trunk) and face (creating a "moon face"), is a more common characteristic of Cushing's syndrome. The excess cortisol often leads to increased fat deposits, especially in these areas, rather than weight loss.

Cushing's syndrome is characterized by an excess of cortisol in the body, either due to the body producing too much cortisol or from long-term use of corticosteroid medications. Considering this condition, the nurse should expect the following finding:

Choice D Reason:

Easily bruised is correct. Excess cortisol can lead to the thinning of the skin and weakening of blood vessels, making individuals with Cushing's syndrome prone to easy bruising. Other common findings associated with Cushing's syndrome include weight gain (especially in the trunk and face), muscle weakness, high blood pressure, fatigue, and changes in skin such as thinning and purple stretch marks.