A client is scheduled for an adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test to help diagnose suspected Addison's disease. What should the nurse include when teaching the client about this test?

A. Laparoscopic splenectomy involves the surgical removal of the spleen. The spleen is an organ where platelets are often destroyed in ITP. Removing the spleen can reduce the destruction of platelets and potentially improve platelet counts. This procedure is considered when medical therapy fails to adequately control the condition and is often effective in increasing platelet counts for many patients with chronic ITP.
B. Transfusion of platelets is generally not effective in ITP because the underlying problem is that the platelets are being destroyed by the immune system. Platelet transfusions may provide a temporary increase in platelet count but do not address the underlying cause of platelet destruction.
C. ADAMTS-13 is a von Willebrand factor-cleaving protease associated with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), not ITP. Replacement of ADAMTS-13 is relevant for treating TTP, a different condition that also involves thrombocytopenia but has a different pathophysiology.
D. Protamine sulfate is used to reverse the effects of heparin, an anticoagulant. It is not used to treat ITP and does not affect platelet destruction or platelet count. This procedure is not relevant to the management of ITP.

A. The immediate concern with abrupt cessation is more related to adrenal insufficiency rather than hyperglycemia. However, chronic use of prednisone can contribute to glucose intolerance and diabetes, but this is not the primary issue with sudden discontinuation.
B. Abrupt discontinuation of prednisone can lead to adrenal insufficiency because the body has become reliant on the medication to suppress inflammation and regulate various bodily functions. The adrenal glands may not immediately resume normal cortisol production, which can lead to symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, including hypotension.

C. Fluid retention is a common side effect of prednisone use. However, stopping prednisone suddenly does not typically cause fluid retention; rather, it can lead to other issues like adrenal insufficiency. Fluid retention is more related to the medication's use rather than its abrupt discontinuation.
D. Abruptly stopping high-dose prednisone, especially after long-term use, can be dangerous. The body may not immediately resume normal cortisol production, leading to symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, such as fatigue, weakness, and hypotension. It is crucial to taper off prednisone gradually under medical supervision to allow the adrenal glands time to recover and to avoid withdrawal symptoms.