A new client at the clinic has been diagnosed with Cushing's ...

[theo]

A new client at the clinic has been diagnosed with Cushing's syndrome. The family brought the client to the clinic in the hopes that the client could be helped with which of the following symptoms?
 
  1. Low blood pressure and hypoglycemia
   2. Upper body obesity and thinning of the arms and legs
   3. Thickened skin with bruising
   4. General loss of hair on the body

Question 2

The nurse accompanies the physician into the client's room and listens as the diagnosis of cancer is shared with the client and family. After the physician answers questions and leaves the room, the nurse's best action is to:
 
  1. Provide teaching about the treatment options for this form of cancer.
   2. Help the client and family remain realistic about prognosis.
   3. Provide emotional support in coping with the diagnosis.
   4. Arrange for the client to complete a medical power of attorney form.

[aruss1303]

Answer to Question 1

2. Upper body obesity and thinning of the arms and legs

Rationale:
Primary symptoms of Cushing's syndrome include upper body obesity and thinning of the arms and legs. Hypertension and hyperglycemia, not hypotension and hypoglycemia, are commonly seen. Skin is thin and fragile, not thickened, and bruising does occur. Hair tends to be to be excessive, not decreased.

Answer to Question 2

3. Provide emotional support in coping with the diagnosis.

Rationale:
When a client and family receive a new diagnosis of cancer, it tends to evoke many emotions including fear, grief, and anger. This is not an opportune time to teach or set goals. The client and family require emotional support at this time, and other actions can be initiated when they have time to learn to accept and cope with the diagnosis.
Cognitive Level: Applying
Client Need: Psychosocial Integrity

[theo]

Excellent

[olderstudent]

TYSM