A nurse is caring for a child who has Addison's disease. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Place the child on a low-sodium diet
Discuss the manifestations of hyperglycemia with the parents
Monitor the child for fluid volume excess
Teach the parents about cortisol replacement therapy
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: A low-sodium diet is not recommended for a child who has Addison's disease, as they need more sodium to maintain their blood pressure and fluid balance. A high-sodium diet may be advised instead. ¹
Choice B reason: Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is not a common manifestation of Addison's disease, as the condition causes low levels of cortisol, which normally raises blood sugar. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is more likely to occur and should be monitored and treated. ²
Choice C reason: Fluid volume excess, or edema, is not a common complication of Addison's disease, as the condition causes low levels of aldosterone, which normally retains sodium and water in the body. Fluid volume deficit, or dehydration, is more likely to occur and should be prevented and corrected. ³
Choice D reason: Cortisol replacement therapy is the main treatment for Addison's disease, as it helps restore the normal function of the adrenal glands and prevent adrenal crisis. The parents should be taught about the dosage, timing, and side effects of the medication, as well as the signs and symptoms of underdose and overdose. They should also be instructed to increase the dose during times of stress, illness, or injury, and to carry an emergency injection kit. ⁴.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: A protective environment is a type of isolation precaution that is used for patients who are immunocompromised and at high risk of infection from environmental sources, such as fungi or bacteria. It involves using a private room with positive air pressure, high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration, and strict hand hygiene. It is not indicated for patients who have measles, as they are the source of infection, not the susceptible host.
Choice B reason: Airborne is a type of isolation precaution that is used for patients who have diseases that are transmitted by small droplets that can remain suspended in the air and travel over long distances, such as tuberculosis, chickenpox, or measles. It involves using a private room with negative air pressure, HEPA filtration, and respiratory protection for health care workers and visitors. It is the appropriate isolation precaution for patients who have measles, as it prevents the spread of the virus to others.
Choice C reason: Contact is a type of isolation precaution that is used for patients who have diseases that are transmitted by direct or indirect contact with the patient or their environment, such as Clostridioides difficile, scabies, or impetigo. It involves using a private room or cohorting with similar patients, wearing gloves and gowns, and using dedicated equipment. It is not indicated for patients who have measles, as the disease is not spread by contact.
Choice D reason: Droplet is a type of isolation precaution that is used for patients who have diseases that are transmitted by large droplets that are generated by coughing, sneezing, or talking, such as influenza, pertussis, or meningitis. It involves using a private room or cohorting with similar patients, wearing a surgical mask, and maintaining a distance of at least 3 feet from the patient. It is not indicated for patients who have measles, as the disease is spread by airborne transmission.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: A respiratory rate of 24 breaths/min is within the normal range for a 3-year-old child. It does not indicate the degree of hydration or dehydration of the child.
Choice B reason: A heart rate of 130/min is above the normal range for a 3-year-old child, which is 80 to 120/min. It may indicate dehydration, fever, pain, or anxiety. It does not indicate the effectiveness of oral rehydration therapy.
Choice C reason: A urine specific gravity of 1.015 is within the normal range for a child, which is 1.005 to 1.030. It indicates that the child's urine is adequately concentrated and that the child is well hydrated. It is a reliable indicator of the effectiveness of oral rehydration therapy.
Choice D reason: A capillary refill of greater than 3 seconds is abnormal and indicates poor peripheral perfusion. It may be a sign of dehydration, shock, or hypothermia. It does not indicate the effectiveness of oral rehydration therapy.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today