An obese patient is admitted to the unit. The blood glucose level ...

[michelleunicorn]

An obese patient is admitted to the unit. The blood glucose level is 379, urinalysis reveals glycosuria, blood pressure is 178/99, and the patient complains of muscle aches and weakness
 
  The patient also exhibits a moon face and buffalo hump. The nurse recognizes these signs and symptoms as ___________________ ___ and anticipates ___________________ __.
  a. Graves' disease; treatment directed at the cause
  b. Addison's disease; administration of fludrocortisone
  c. Cushing's syndrome; treatment directed at the cause
  d. diabetes; insulin replacement therapy

Question 2

A patient has recently been diagnosed with adrenal hormone insufficiency. The nurse is providing patient education about the use of glucocorticoids. Which statement made by the patient demonstrates a need for further teaching?
 
  a. I should wear a medical ID bracelet at all times.
  b. I should increase my dose when I am stressed.
  c. I should lower my dose when I am stressed.
  d. I should carry an adequate supply of medication with me at all times.

[efwsefaw]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Cushing's syndrome is manifested by obesity, hyperglycemia, glycosuria, hypertension, fluid and electrolyte disturbances, osteoporosis, muscle weakness, myopathy, hirsutism, a moon face, and a buffalo hump. Treatment is directed at the cause.
Graves' disease is not associated with the adrenal gland, but rather with the thyroid gland.
Addison's disease is manifested by weakness, emaciation, hypoglycemia, and increased pigmentation of the skin and mucous membranes.
Diabetes is manifested in many ways but not by a moon face or buffalo hump.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
At times of stress, patients with Addison's disease must increase their glucocorticoid dosage. Failure to increase the dose may be fatal. This statement best demonstrates the need for further teaching.
These statements are appropriate and demonstrate understanding. The patient should always wear a medical ID bracelet and carry extra medication, even an injection pen.

[michelleunicorn]

Excellent

[Bigfoot1984]

Gracias!