A nurse is caring for a client who has hypokalemia, hyperglycemia, and hypertension. A diagnosis of Cushing syndrome is suspected. Which of the following tests would the nurse anticipate the health care provider will order to help confirm the diagnosis of Cushing syndrome?
Radioactive iodine uptake test
24-hour cortisol urine study
Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test
Edrophonium (Tensilon) test
The Correct Answer is B
A. Radioactive iodine uptake test: This test is used to assess thyroid function and diagnose thyroid disorders, such as hyperthyroidism. It is not used to diagnose Cushing syndrome.
B. 24-hour cortisol urine study: This test measures cortisol levels in the urine over a 24-hour period and is commonly used to diagnose Cushing syndrome by evaluating elevated cortisol production.
C. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test: This test evaluates adrenal function and is typically used to assess adrenal insufficiency rather than Cushing syndrome.
D. Edrophonium (Tensilon) test: This test is used to diagnose myasthenia gravis, not Cushing syndrome. It evaluates the effect of the medication on muscle strength.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. IV hydrocortisone: In an Addisonian crisis, there is an acute adrenal insufficiency which requires immediate treatment with IV hydrocortisone to replace the deficient glucocorticoids. This helps to rapidly correct the hormone imbalance and stabilize the patient.
B. Ketoconazole and insulin: Ketoconazole is an antifungal medication used to treat Cushing syndrome, not Addisonian crisis. Insulin is used for managing blood glucose levels and is not directly related to the treatment of an Addisonian crisis.
C. Lactated Ringer's IV infusion: While fluid replacement may be necessary in an Addisonian crisis, the immediate priority is to address the adrenal insufficiency with hydrocortisone. Lactated Ringer's may be used to support fluid balance but is not a substitute for glucocorticoid therapy.
D. Furosemide slow IV push: Furosemide is a diuretic used to manage fluid retention and is not indicated for treating Addisonian crisis. The primary treatment for Addisonian crisis is to address the adrenal hormone deficiency with hydrocortisone.
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