Which finding indicates to the nurse that the current therapies are effective for a patient with acute adrenal insufficiency?
Decreasing serum chloride levels
Increasing serum sodium levels
Increasing serum potassium levels
Decreasing blood sucrose levels
The Correct Answer is B
Acute adrenal insufficiency, also known as adrenal crisis, is characterized by low levels of adrenal hormones, particularly cortisol. One of the primary manifestations of adrenal insufficiency is electrolyte imbalance, specifically hyponatremia (low sodium) and hyperkalemia (high potassium). Inadequate cortisol levels can lead to impaired sodium reabsorption in the kidneys, resulting in sodium loss and low serum sodium levels.
When the patient receives appropriate therapies for acute adrenal insufficiency, such as administration of glucocorticoids (e.g., hydrocortisone), the cortisol levels begin to normalize. As a result, the impaired sodium reabsorption improves, leading to an increase in serum sodium levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Pin site care is essential to prevent infections and other complications associated with external fixation devices. The nurse should instruct the patient to clean the pin insertion sites daily with a sterile saline solution or as per healthcare provider's instructions. The patient should also observe for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, and drainage, and report any concerns to the healthcare provider.
Assessing the skin under the foam boot twice daily is not specific to external fixation devices, and it may not be relevant to this patient's care plan. The nurse should focus on teaching the patient about external fixation device care specifically.
Taking prophylactic antibiotics before any dental work for the rest of your life is not relevant to external fixation devices or right lower leg fractures. It is a recommendation for patients with certain heart conditions who may be at risk of developing infective endocarditis during dental procedures.
Removing the external fixator for the shower is not recommended as the device should be kept dry to prevent infections. The nurse should instruct the patient to cover the device with a waterproof dressing or plastic bag during showering to protect it from getting wet.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Hemoglobin A1C is a blood test that provides an average blood glucose level over the past 2-3 months. Regular monitoring of A1C levels helps to assess the effectiveness of lifestyle modifications and treatment plans and guides adjustments in management if necessary.
Daily exercise is another essential aspect of managing pre-diabetes. Regular physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity, promotes weight management, and reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The nurse should educate patients on the importance of incorporating physical activity into their daily routine and provide recommendations on suitable exercise types and durations.
While other options may be relevant for patients with diabetes, they are not specifically tailored to pre-diabetes, which is a condition where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet meeting the criteria for diabetes.
Hypoglycemia and injection site infection are more relevant concerns for individuals with diabetes who require insulin or other medications to manage their blood sugar levels. Increasing carbohydrate intake and administering insulin are not appropriate recommendations for pre-diabetes management, as they can contribute to elevated blood glucose levels.
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