A client will soon begin long-term treatment with hydrocortisone after being diagnosed with Addison's disease. In order to mitigate the potential adverse effect of this treatment regimen, the nurse should encourage the client to increase the intake of what nutrient?
Sodium
Potassium
Calcium
Water
The Correct Answer is A
Hydrocortisone is a synthetic form of the hormone cortisol, which is produced by the adrenal glands. Addison's disease is a condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol and other hormones. Treatment with hydrocortisone is a lifelong therapy that replaces the missing hormones.
One of the potential adverse effects of long-term treatment with hydrocortisone is the development of sodium depletion or hyponatremia. This occurs because hydrocortisone can increase the excretion of sodium in the urine, leading to low levels of sodium in the blood.
To mitigate this potential adverse effect, the nurse should encourage the client to increase their intake of sodium. This can be done through dietary sources such as adding more salt to their food or drinking sports drinks that contain electrolytes. The client should also be monitored closely for signs of sodium depletion, such as weakness, fatigue, and confusion.
It is also important to note that long-term treatment with hydrocortisone can increase the risk of other adverse effects, such as osteoporosis, hyperglycemia, and infection. The nurse should educate the client on these potential adverse effects and encourage them to follow their healthcare provider's instructions for monitoring and management.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Hydrocortisone is a synthetic form of the hormone cortisol, which is produced by the adrenal glands. Addison's disease is a condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol and other hormones. Treatment with hydrocortisone is a lifelong therapy that replaces the missing hormones.
One of the potential adverse effects of long-term treatment with hydrocortisone is the development of sodium depletion or hyponatremia. This occurs because hydrocortisone can increase the excretion of sodium in the urine, leading to low levels of sodium in the blood.
To mitigate this potential adverse effect, the nurse should encourage the client to increase their intake of sodium. This can be done through dietary sources such as adding more salt to their food or drinking sports drinks that contain electrolytes. The client should also be monitored closely for signs of sodium depletion, such as weakness, fatigue, and confusion.
It is also important to note that long-term treatment with hydrocortisone can increase the risk of other adverse effects, such as osteoporosis, hyperglycemia, and infection. The nurse should educate the client on these potential adverse effects and encourage them to follow their healthcare provider's instructions for monitoring and management.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The drug will eradicate my tumor and cure my cancer" establishes the need for further clarification. While mitotane is used to treat adrenocortical carcinoma, it is not considered a curative treatment. The other statements made by the client demonstrate a correct understanding of the medication and its administration.
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