A patient's status post hypophysectomy had drainage on the mustache dressing. Which complication is this patient at risk for if the glucose level of the drainage is 50 mg/dL?

A. Moon face is typically associated with Cushing's syndrome, not acromegaly, which is characterized by changes in the hands, feet, and facial features rather than a rounded, moon-shaped face.
B. Enlarged distal extremities (hands and feet) are classic symptoms of acromegaly due to excessive growth hormone production.
C. Hepatomegaly (enlarged liver) is a common finding in acromegaly due to the overproduction of growth hormone, which affects organ size.
D. Coarse facial features (such as a protruding jaw, enlarged nose, and thickened lips) are a hallmark of acromegaly, resulting from the overgrowth of soft tissues.
E. Loss of color discrimination is not typically associated with acromegaly and may be seen in other conditions affecting the optic nerve or eye, but it is not a key symptom of acromegaly.

A. "You need the stool softener because it will be hard to defecate while you remain in bed.": This is not the most appropriate response. While immobility can make bowel movements more difficult, the primary concern following pituitary surgery is the avoidance of straining due to the potential for increased intracranial pressure (ICP). The emphasis should be on avoiding pressure on the surgical site rather than general difficulties from immobility.
B. "Any manipulation of the pituitary gland can cause difficulty in defecation, so stool softeners are important after your surgery.": This is misleading. While pituitary surgery may influence certain bodily functions, the most critical concern is preventing straining to avoid raising ICP. The focus should be on explaining the rationale for avoiding pressure on the surgical site.
C. "It is important you do not strain during bowel movements because this could result in increased pressure on your surgical site.": This is the correct response. Straining during bowel movements can increase ICP, which could potentially compromise healing or lead to complications after pituitary surgery. This explanation directly addresses the patient's safety and emphasizes the need for stool softeners to prevent straining.
D. "You can choose not to take the stool softener if you feel you do not need it.": This response is inappropriate because it does not emphasize the importance of preventing straining, which is a critical consideration after pituitary surgery. The nurse should provide education on the necessity of the stool softener to avoid complications rather than leaving the decision solely to the patient.