A nurse is caring for a client who has developed Cushing syndrome due to long-term corticosteroid therapy to treat multiple sclerosis. The nurse understands that Cushing syndrome puts the client at increased risk for which complication?
Ataxic dysarthria
Hypotension
Hyperkalemia
Bone fracture
The Correct Answer is D
A. Ataxic dysarthria: This is not a common complication associated with Cushing syndrome. It is more related to neurological disorders affecting speech and coordination.
B. Hypotension: Cushing syndrome typically causes hypertension rather than hypotension due to fluid retention and increased vascular resistance.
C. Hyperkalemia: Cushing syndrome is associated with hypokalemia rather than hyperkalemia due to the effects of excess cortisol on potassium levels.
D. Bone fracture: Cushing syndrome increases the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures due to prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol, which affects bone density and strength.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A 40-year-old patient with Cushing syndrome and gynecomastia: While Cushing syndrome requires ongoing management and monitoring, gynecomastia alone is not an urgent concern compared to the symptoms described in option B.
B. A 58-year-old patient with Addison's disease who is exhibiting confusion: Addison's disease can lead to adrenal insufficiency, and confusion could indicate an adrenal crisis or severe electrolyte imbalance. This is a critical situation requiring immediate assessment to prevent severe complications.
C. A 45-year-old patient with Graves' disease and exophthalmos: Graves' disease with exophthalmos is significant but does not typically represent an immediate life-threatening condition compared to the symptoms associated with Addison's disease.
D. A 47-year-old patient with hypothyroidism who is asking for a warm blanket: This patient’s request for a warm blanket suggests they might be experiencing symptoms related to hypothyroidism, such as feeling cold. However, this is less urgent compared to the confusion and potential crisis in option B.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Elevated adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and elevated cortisol: In cases of ectopic ACTH syndrome, the tumor produces ACTH, which stimulates the adrenal glands to produce excess cortisol. Therefore, both ACTH and cortisol levels are elevated.
B. Elevated adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and low cortisol: This scenario is less likely as elevated ACTH typically results in increased cortisol production, not decreased.
C. Low adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and elevated cortisol: This is characteristic of primary adrenal insufficiency, not ectopic ACTH syndrome, where ACTH levels are usually high.
D. Low adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and low cortisol: This pattern is inconsistent with Cushing syndrome, especially due to ectopic ACTH-secreting tumors, which typically result in elevated ACTH and cortisol.
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