A nurse is providing dietary teaching for a client who has Cushing's disease. Which of the following recommendations should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. The client is likely experiencing an allergic reaction to penicillin, such as anaphylaxis, which can cause symptoms like itching, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. The first step is to stop the infusion immediately to prevent further exposure to the allergen.
B. Elevating the head of the bed might be helpful if the client is experiencing respiratory distress, but stopping the infusion is the priority action.
C. Auscultating the client's breath sounds may be useful later to assess the severity of respiratory distress, but it is not the first action in an acute allergic reaction.
D. Calling the provider is important, but the immediate priority is stopping the infusion to prevent further harm from the allergic reaction.

A. Increase carbohydrate intake.: This is incorrect. Cushing’s disease is characterized by excessive cortisol, which can lead to increased blood glucose levels, making carbohydrate intake less desirable. Clients with Cushing's disease often need to manage their blood sugar levels, so they should not increase carbohydrates indiscriminately.
B. Limit intake of potassium-rich foods.: This is incorrect. In Cushing’s disease, elevated cortisol levels can lead to potassium depletion, so clients should actually increase their intake of potassium-rich foods to help counteract the effects of low potassium, not limit them.
C. Restrict sodium intake.: This is correct. Cushing’s disease often results in fluid retention and hypertension due to increased cortisol and aldosterone levels. Restricting sodium helps manage these symptoms and reduces the risk of complications such as edema and high blood pressure.
D. Decrease protein intake.: This is incorrect. While protein breakdown is a feature of Cushing's disease, protein intake should not necessarily be decreased. Adequate protein intake is important to prevent muscle wasting, a common issue in clients with Cushing’s disease.