A client complaining of weight gain and acne undergoes laboratory testing, which reveals elevated cortisol levels and hyperglycemia. The client has no prior medical history, and does not take any medications. After further testing and imaging to determine the cause of the elevated cortisol levels, the client is diagnosed with Cushing disease caused by a pituitary adenoma. Which of the following statements should the nurse include when teaching the client about this diagnosis?
It is important that you taper off of the corticosteroids you are taking which have caused this disorder.
You will need to have your adrenal glands removed to reverse your symptoms.
You will need to begin taking hydrocortisone, and increase your dose during times of stress.
You will receive glucose checks and sliding-scale insulin until your hormone levels are corrected.
The Correct Answer is B
A. It is important that you taper off of the corticosteroids you are taking which have caused this disorder: This statement is not applicable because the client has a pituitary adenoma causing Cushing disease, not iatrogenic Cushing syndrome from corticosteroid use.
B. You will need to have your adrenal glands removed to reverse your symptoms: For Cushing disease caused by a pituitary adenoma, treatment typically involves surgical removal of the pituitary tumor, not the adrenal glands.
C. You will need to begin taking hydrocortisone, and increase your dose during times of stress: This is incorrect as hydrocortisone replacement is used for Addison's disease, not for managing Cushing disease.
D. You will receive glucose checks and sliding-scale insulin until your hormone levels are corrected: While glucose monitoring might be necessary due to hyperglycemia, the primary treatment for Cushing disease involves addressing the source of excess cortisol, which is the pituitary adenoma.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","G"]
Explanation
A. Administer propylthiouracil (PTU): PTU is used for treating hyperthyroidism by inhibiting thyroid hormone production. The client's lab results show low Free T4 and elevated TSH, indicating hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism. Therefore, PTU is not appropriate for this condition.
B. Provide warm blankets: The client is experiencing hypothermia (temperature 35.6°C or 96.1°F) and lethargy. Providing warm blankets helps in managing low body temperature and preventing further complications. This intervention is necessary to stabilize the client's body temperature.
C. Place the client on a cardiac monitor: The client has bradycardia (heart rate 49/min) and a slow respiratory rate (10/min), which are signs of possible cardiac involvement due to hypothyroidism. Cardiac monitoring is essential to detect and manage any potential arrhythmias or cardiac issues that may arise.
D. Place the client on a high-calorie diet: A high-calorie diet is usually recommended for managing hyperthyroidism due to increased metabolism. However, this client has hypothyroidism, characterized by reduced metabolism and low energy levels, so this intervention is not appropriate.
E. Administer propranolol: Propranolol is used to manage symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as tachycardia and tremors. Given the client's symptoms and lab results indicating hypothyroidism, propranolol is not indicated for this condition.
F. Administer acetaminophen: Acetaminophen is used to reduce fever, but the client is hypothermic rather than febrile. Administering acetaminophen would not address the client's current issue of low body temperature.
G. Administer levothyroxine: The client has low Free T4 and elevated TSH, indicating hypothyroidism. Levothyroxine is the appropriate medication to manage hypothyroidism by supplementing thyroid hormone levels. This intervention is necessary to treat the underlying thyroid condition.
H. Prepare the client for a subtotal thyroidectomy: A subtotal thyroidectomy is a surgical option considered for severe thyroid disorders, such as thyroid cancer or uncontrollable hyperthyroidism. This client's presentation suggests hypothyroidism rather than a condition requiring surgical intervention.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. I will need to wear a medical alert bracelet at all times: This statement is correct. Clients with Addison's disease should wear a medical alert bracelet to inform healthcare providers of their condition in case of an emergency, as it could impact treatment decisions.
B. I will need to hold my hydrocortisone dose if I have an infection: This statement indicates a need for additional teaching. Clients with Addison's disease should not hold their hydrocortisone dose if they have an infection. In fact, they may need to increase their dose during periods of stress or illness to manage their condition effectively.
C. I will take my hydrocortisone tablets twice a day: This statement is correct. Hydrocortisone is typically taken in divided doses to mimic the natural release of cortisol from the adrenal glands.
D. I will need to eat a high-sodium diet: This statement is correct. Clients with Addison's disease often need to increase their sodium intake, as they may have difficulties retaining sodium due to adrenal insufficiency.
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