A nurse is caring for a patient with Addison's Disease. Which of the following clinical manifestations should the nurse expect to observe? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)
buffalo hump
hyponatremia
decreased glucose level
weight gain
Craving for salt
Correct Answer : B,C,E
A. Buffalo hump:
Explanation: A buffalo hump is associated with excess cortisol, which is not a typical manifestation of Addison's disease. Instead, patients with Addison's disease may experience weight loss and muscle wasting.
B. Hyponatremia:
Explanation: Correct. Hyponatremia (low sodium levels) can occur in Addison's disease due to the loss of aldosterone, which plays a role in sodium and water balance.
C. Decreased glucose level:
Explanation: Correct. Addison's disease can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels) because cortisol, which is important for maintaining blood glucose, is deficient.
D. Weight gain:
Explanation: Weight gain is not a typical manifestation of Addison's disease. Instead, weight loss and muscle wasting may occur.
E. Craving for salt:
Explanation: Correct. Addison's disease can lead to salt craving, as aldosterone deficiency results in increased sodium loss and potassium retention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Respiratory acidosis:
This occurs when there is inadequate removal of carbon dioxide (CO2) by the respiratory system. In the case of the patient post-op from knee surgery receiving Morphine, the opioid can cause respiratory depression, leading to the retention of CO2 and the development of respiratory acidosis. Signs include a decreased respiratory rate and drowsiness.
B. Hypokalemia:
This is a condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood. While opioids can cause constipation, they are not directly associated with hypokalemia.
C. Metabolic acidosis:
This occurs when there is an increase in acid production or a loss of bicarbonate, leading to an imbalance in the body's acid-base status. The symptoms of metabolic acidosis are not typically associated with opioid use.
D. Respiratory alkalosis:
This occurs when there is excessive elimination of CO2, leading to decreased carbon dioxide levels in the blood. Opioids, especially in higher doses, are more likely to cause respiratory depression and acidosis rather than alkalosis. The patient's low respiratory rate and drowsiness are indicative of respiratory acidosis rather than alkalosis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Respiratory acidosis:
This occurs when there is inadequate ventilation, leading to an accumulation of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. In the context of a nasogastric tube attached to low suction, respiratory acidosis is not the primary concern. It is more associated with conditions like respiratory depression or lung diseases.
B. Metabolic acidosis:
Metabolic acidosis results from an excess of acid or a loss of bicarbonate. It is not the typical outcome of a nasogastric tube attached to low suction. Conditions like diarrhea or renal failure are more commonly associated with metabolic acidosis.
C. Respiratory alkalosis:
Respiratory alkalosis occurs when there is excessive loss of carbon dioxide from the body, often due to hyperventilation. This is not a typical consequence of a nasogastric tube attached to low suction.
D. Metabolic alkalosis:
Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an excess of bicarbonate or a loss of acid. In the given context, with the nasogastric tube attached to low suction, there is a potential loss of gastric acid, contributing to metabolic alkalosis.
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