The nurse is assessing a patient with Cushing syndrome. Which finding should the nurse report for immediate follow-up?
Serum potassium 2.5 mEq/L and blood pressure 150/90 mmHg
Serum phosphorus 3 mg/dL and hirsutism
Serum calcium 10 mg/dl, and reports of feelings of depression
Serum sodium 145 mEq/L and reports of muscle weakness
The Correct Answer is A
A. Serum potassium 2.5 mEq/L and blood pressure 150/90 mmHg - This combination of severe hypokalemia (low potassium) and elevated blood pressure is a concerning finding. It can lead to serious cardiac complications and requires immediate attention.
B. Serum phosphorus 3 mg/dL and hirsutism - While low serum phosphorus may be seen in Cushing syndrome, it is not an immediate concern. Hirsutism (excessive hair growth) is a characteristic feature of Cushing syndrome.
C. Serum calcium 10 mg/dL, and reports of feelings of depression - Although an elevated serum calcium level is not typical in Cushing syndrome, it is not an immediate concern. Reports of depression should be addressed but do not require immediate follow-up.
D. Serum sodium 145 mEq/L and reports of muscle weakness - These findings are not indicative of immediate danger. Elevated serum sodium and muscle weakness can occur in Cushing syndrome, but they do not warrant immediate attention compared to the potassium level and blood pressure in option A.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Flaccid muscles are associated with conditions like hypokalemia, not hypoparathyroidism. In hypoparathyroidism, there is a deficiency of parathyroid hormone (PTH), which leads to low calcium levels and can result in muscle spasms and tetany, not flaccid muscles.
B. While anorexia can occur in clients with various health conditions, it is not a specific finding associated with hypoparathyroidism.
C. Correct. Hypoparathyroidism is characterized by low levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH), which leads to low calcium levels in the blood. This can cause symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and muscle cramps, especially in the extremities.
D. A positive Chvostek's sign is associated with hypocalcemia, which can be caused by hypoparathyroidism. Therefore, a negative Chvostek's sign would not be an expected finding in a client with hypoparathyroidism.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Incorrect. Withholding insulin during illness is not recommended. Clients with type 1 diabetes should continue to take their prescribed insulin even when they are ill. Insulin is necessary to regulate blood glucose levels, and illness can increase the body's demand for insulin.
B. Incorrect. Drinking calorie-free liquids is important to prevent dehydration during illness, but specific fluid amounts should be individualized based on the client's needs and healthcare provider's recommendations. The given volume is not a universally applicable guideline.
C. Incorrect. Testing blood glucose levels every 8 hours may not be frequent enough during illness. Blood glucose should be monitored more frequently to closely track changes in response to illness and adjust insulin doses accordingly.
D. Correct. Checking urine for ketones when blood glucose levels exceed 240 mg/dL is an important guideline during illness. Elevated blood glucose levels can lead to the production of ketones, and checking for ketones in the urine helps identify the early signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). If ketones are present, the client should follow a specific plan of action as outlined by their healthcare provider, which may include adjusting insulin doses or seeking medical attention.
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