Author Question: A 44-year-old female patient with Cushing syndrome is admitted for adrenalectomy. Which intervention ... (Read 82 times)

imowrer · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A 44-year-old female patient with Cushing syndrome is admitted for adrenalectomy. Which intervention by the nurse will be most helpful for a nursing diagnosis of disturbed body image related to changes in appearance?

a. Reassure the patient that the physical changes are very common in patients with Cushing syndrome.
b. Discuss the use of diet and exercise in controlling the weight gain associated with Cushing syndrome.
c. Teach the patient that the metabolic impact of Cushing syndrome is of more importance than appearance.
d. Remind the patient that most of the physical changes caused by Cushing syndrome will resolve after surgery.

Question 2

A 37-year-old patient is being admitted with a diagnosis of Cushing syndrome. Which findings will the nurse expect during the assessment?

a. Chronically low blood pressure
b. Bronzed appearance of the skin
c. Purplish streaks on the abdomen
d. Decreased axillary and pubic hair

medine · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
The most reassuring communication to the patient is that the physical and emotional changes caused by the Cushing syndrome will resolve after hormone levels return to normal postoperatively. Reassurance that the physical changes are expected or that there are more serious physiologic problems associated with Cushing syndrome are not therapeutic responses. The patient's physiological changes are caused by the high hormone levels, not by the patient's diet or exercise choices.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Purplish-red striae on the abdomen are a common clinical manifestation of Cushing syndrome. Hypotension and bronzed-appearing skin are manifestations of Addison's disease. Decreased axillary and pubic hair occur with androgen deficiency.