The nurse is caring for a 4-month-old infant in the emergency department. The nurse reviews the infant's medical record and assessment findings. Which of the following conditions should the nurse suspect, and what actions should the nurse take to address that condition, and what parameters should the nurse monitor to assess the infant's progress?

The nurse should suspect that the infant has

Choice A reason: A low-sodium diet is not recommended for a child who has Addison's disease, as they need more sodium to maintain their blood pressure and fluid balance. A high-sodium diet may be advised instead. ¹

Choice B reason: Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is not a common manifestation of Addison's disease, as the condition causes low levels of cortisol, which normally raises blood sugar. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is more likely to occur and should be monitored and treated. ²

Choice C reason: Fluid volume excess, or edema, is not a common complication of Addison's disease, as the condition causes low levels of aldosterone, which normally retains sodium and water in the body. Fluid volume deficit, or dehydration, is more likely to occur and should be prevented and corrected. ³

Choice D reason: Cortisol replacement therapy is the main treatment for Addison's disease, as it helps restore the normal function of the adrenal glands and prevent adrenal crisis. The parents should be taught about the dosage, timing, and side effects of the medication, as well as the signs and symptoms of underdose and overdose. They should also be instructed to increase the dose during times of stress, illness, or injury, and to carry an emergency injection kit. ⁴.

Choice A reason: Encouraging the child to take a 45 min nap daily is not a helpful instruction, as it may interfere with the child's normal sleep pattern and school schedule. The child may benefit from regular rest periods throughout the day, but not necessarily a long nap. ⁵

Choice B reason: Administering prednisone on an alternate day schedule is a helpful instruction, as it is a common way of prescribing corticosteroids for children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Corticosteroids are used to reduce inflammation and control symptoms, but they have many side effects, such as growth suppression, weight gain, and osteoporosis. Giving the medication every other day may reduce some of these side effects and improve compliance. ⁶

Choice C reason: Applying cool compresses for 20 min every hour is not a helpful instruction, as it may cause skin damage and discomfort. Cool compresses may be useful for acute inflammation, but not for chronic arthritis. Warm compresses or baths may be more soothing and beneficial for the child's joints. ⁷

Choice D reason: Allowing the child to stay at home on days when her joints are painful is not a helpful instruction, as it may lead to social isolation, academic difficulties, and reduced physical activity. The child should be encouraged to attend school and participate in activities as much as possible, with appropriate accommodations and modifications if needed. The child may also benefit from physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management strategies. ⁸