A patient is admitted to the hospital in Addisonian Crisis a month after a diagnosis of Addison’s disease. The nurse identifies the nursing diagnosis of ineffective therapeutic regimen management related to lack of knowledge of management of the condition when the patient says:
“I double my dose of hydrocortisone on the days that I go for a run.”
“I had the stomach flu earlier this week and couldn't take the hydrocortisone.”
“I frequently eat at restaurants, and so my food has a lot of added salt."
“I do yoga exercises almost every day to help me reduce stress and relax.”
The Correct Answer is B
The statement "I had the stomach flu earlier this week and couldn't take the hydrocortisone" indicates that the patient may not be adhering to their prescribed medication regimen, which can lead to an Addisonian crisis. Therefore, the nursing diagnosis of ineffective therapeutic regimen management related to lack of knowledge of management of the condition is appropriate.
Addison’s disease is a condition in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol and aldosterone. Hydrocortisone is a glucocorticoid medication that is often used to replace the cortisol that the adrenal glands are not producing. In the Addisonian crisis, the body is unable to produce the necessary levels of cortisol and aldosterone, which can lead to potentially life-threatening complications such as hypotension, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.
The other statements may indicate areas where patient education is needed, but they do not directly relate to the immediate risk of an Addisonian crisis.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
One of the hallmarks of adrenal insufficiency is dehydration and decreased urinary output, which can lead to electrolyte imbalances such as hyperkalemia and hyponatremia. As treatment begins to take effect, the patient's fluid and electrolyte balance should improve, leading to an increase in urinary output. Acute adrenal insufficiency, also known as the Addisonian crisis, is a life-threatening condition caused by a sudden decrease in cortisol and aldosterone hormones. Treatment usually involves the administration of intravenous glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids to replace the deficient hormones.
Decreasing serum sodium (a) and decreasing blood glucose (b) are not signs of improvement but rather indicative of continued adrenal insufficiency. Decreasing serum potassium (c) is also not a sign of improvement as it could indicate that the patient is developing hyperkalemia, which is a potential complication of adrenal crisis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Based on the given arterial blood gas results, the patient's pH is elevated, indicating alkalosis. The PaCO2 level is decreased, which suggests respiratory compensation. The bicarbonate (HCO3-) level is within the normal range. Therefore, the interpretation of the arterial blood gas results is respiratory alkalosis.
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