A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who has AIDS and has malnutrition. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care?

Choice A Reason:

Jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, is typically associated with liver dysfunction or conditions affecting the breakdown of red blood cells, not directly linked to Cushing's syndrome. While some liver abnormalities can be seen in Cushing's syndrome due to metabolic changes, jaundice is not a typical manifestation of this condition.

Choice B Reason:

Muscle rigidity is more commonly associated with conditions like Parkinson's disease, dystonia, or certain muscle disorders. In Cushing's syndrome, muscle weakness due to protein breakdown and muscle wasting is a more expected finding rather than muscle rigidity.

Choice C Reason:

Weight loss is incorrect. Weight gain, particularly in the central part of the body (trunk) and face (creating a "moon face"), is a more common characteristic of Cushing's syndrome. The excess cortisol often leads to increased fat deposits, especially in these areas, rather than weight loss.

Cushing's syndrome is characterized by an excess of cortisol in the body, either due to the body producing too much cortisol or from long-term use of corticosteroid medications. Considering this condition, the nurse should expect the following finding:

Choice D Reason:

Easily bruised is correct. Excess cortisol can lead to the thinning of the skin and weakening of blood vessels, making individuals with Cushing's syndrome prone to easy bruising. Other common findings associated with Cushing's syndrome include weight gain (especially in the trunk and face), muscle weakness, high blood pressure, fatigue, and changes in skin such as thinning and purple stretch marks.

Choice A Reason:

Ensure the blinds in the client's room remain open is not appropriate. Bright light can contribute to sensory overload. It's better to create a subdued and calming environment, so keeping the blinds closed or partially closed might help reduce excess stimuli.

Choice B Reason:

Place the client in a room near the nurses' station is not appropriate. Being near the nurses' station could increase the noise and activity around the client, potentially worsening sensory overload. It's advisable to place the client in a quieter area away from high-traffic zones to minimize auditory and visual stimulation.

Choice C Reason:

Play quiet music in the client's room is incorrect. While soothing music might help some individuals relax, for someone experiencing sensory overload, even low-volume music could add to the stimuli. Silence or minimal ambient noise might be more beneficial.

Choice D Reason:

Break up nursing care into small, frequent sessions is correct. This action is beneficial for managing sensory overload. Breaking up care into smaller sessions allows for adequate rest periods between activities, reducing the overall sensory input at any given time.