A nurse is assisting a client who had a recent stroke with getting dressed for physical therapy. The client looks at each piece of clothing before putting it on the body. The client states, “This is how I know what item I am holding.” What impairment is this client likely experiencing?

Reasoning:

Choice A reason: Addison’s disease, due to adrenal insufficiency, reduces aldosterone and cortisol production, leading to sodium loss (hyponatremia) and potassium retention (hyperkalemia). These electrolyte abnormalities result from impaired renal sodium reabsorption and potassium excretion, making sodium and potassium monitoring critical for managing complications like hypotension and arrhythmias.

Choice B reason: Calcium and phosphorus abnormalities are not primary concerns in Addison’s disease. These electrolytes are more affected by parathyroid or renal disorders. Addison’s disease primarily disrupts sodium and potassium balance due to aldosterone deficiency, with calcium and phosphorus typically remaining within normal ranges unless other conditions coexist.

Choice C reason: Sodium abnormalities occur in Addison’s disease due to aldosterone deficiency, causing hyponatremia. However, chloride levels are not significantly altered, as chloride follows sodium passively. Potassium imbalances (hyperkalemia) are more critical alongside sodium, making this combination less comprehensive than sodium and potassium monitoring.

Choice D reason: Chloride and magnesium abnormalities are not hallmark features of Addison’s disease. While mild chloride changes may occur with sodium loss, magnesium is typically unaffected. The primary electrolyte disturbances involve sodium (hyponatremia) and potassium (hyperkalemia), making these the focus of monitoring in adrenal insufficiency.

Reasoning:

Choice A reason: Monitoring weight is essential in Cushing’s syndrome, as excess cortisol promotes fat redistribution and weight gain. Regular weight checks help assess disease progression or treatment response, as weight gain in the trunk and face is a hallmark, and changes may indicate fluid retention or metabolic shifts.

Choice B reason: Administering prescribed diuretics is appropriate in Cushing’s syndrome when fluid retention causes edema or hypertension. Diuretics reduce excess fluid volume due to cortisol’s mineralocorticoid effects, which increase sodium and water retention, helping manage symptoms like swelling and elevated blood pressure effectively.

Choice C reason: A high sodium diet is contraindicated in Cushing’s syndrome, as cortisol’s mineralocorticoid activity causes sodium retention, leading to fluid overload and hypertension. A low-sodium diet is typically recommended to mitigate these effects and reduce the risk of edema and cardiovascular complications.

Choice D reason: Reporting blood pressure above 139/89 mm Hg is critical, as Cushing’s syndrome often causes hypertension due to cortisol’s effects on sodium retention and vascular tone. Elevated blood pressure increases cardiovascular risk, and prompt reporting ensures timely intervention to prevent complications like stroke or heart failure.

Choice E reason: Examining extremities for pitting edema is important, as cortisol’s mineralocorticoid effects cause sodium and water retention, leading to edema. Regular assessment helps detect fluid overload early, guiding diuretic therapy and fluid management to prevent complications like heart failure in clients with Cushing’s syndrome.