Author Question: A patient who is steroid dependent due to adrenocortical insufficiency calls the clinic and is very ... (Read 38 times)

Yolanda · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

A patient who is steroid dependent due to adrenocortical insufficiency calls the clinic and is very upset, telling the nurse of the extreme stress he or she is experiencing right now.

What does the nurse expect the health care provider will order concerning his or her medication? A) The dosage may continue as ordered.
B) The medication may be discontinued until stress declines.
C) The dosage of the medication may be increased.
D) The dosage of the medication may be decreased.

Question 2

Before administering an opiate medication, what will the nurse assess?

A) The patient's weight
B) The patient's heart rate
C) The patient's respiratory rate
D) The patient's drug tolerance

chem1s3 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

C
Feedback:
The patient's body will initiate a stress reaction. Normally, activation of the stress reaction can cause release of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and secretion of the adrenocortical hormones. A patient with adrenocortical insufficiency may not be able to supplement the increased need for ACTH. The stress reaction may block the immune and inflammatory systems, making the body more susceptible to pathogens. Therefore, an increase in medication may be necessary to prevent further adrenal insufficiency and to meet the increased demands for corticosteroids in the body under stress.

Answer to Question 2

C
Feedback:
Check the rate, depth, and rhythm of respirations before each dose. If the patient's heart rate is slower than 12 beats per minute, delay or omit the dose and report to the physician. Weight would be assessed before determining dosage. Heart rate would not be an essential assessment before administration. Drug tolerance is assessed by monitoring patient's response to the medication and could not be assessed before administration.