The nurse is providing care to a patient recovering from a ...

[newyorker26]

The nurse is providing care to a patient recovering from a bilateral adrenalectomy. What should the nurse do to assess for the onset of adrenal insufficiency?
 
  1. monitor strict intake and output
  2. change the dressing using clean technique
  3. question the order for cortisol administration
  4. place the patient on fluid restriction

Question 2

The nurse is providing care to a patient with a low level of serum parathyroid hormone. What should the nurse expect to assess in this patient?
 
  Select all that apply.
  1. facial grimacing
  2. abdominal cramps
  3. hair loss
  4. dysrhythmias
  5. smooth, soft skin

[strudel15]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1
Removal of an adrenal gland, especially a bilateral adrenalectomy, results in adrenal insufficiency. Addisonian crisis and hypovolemic shock may occur. The nurse should monitor intake and output. While care should be taken during dressing changes to avoid infection, this will not prevent adrenal insufficiency. Cortisol is often given on the day of surgery and in the postoperative period to replenish inadequate hormone levels. Intravenous fluids are also administered postoperatively.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3, 4
Facial grimacing, abdominal cramps, hair loss, and dysrhythmias are manifestations of hypoparathyroidism. Smooth, soft skin is not a common finding in the patient with hypoparathyroidism.

[newyorker26]

TYSM

[tkempin]

Great answer, keep it coming