Which admission assessment findings should the nurse document related to a client who has been diagnosed with Cushing’s syndrome?

Choice A reason: Whole milk and ice cream are high in fat, which can trigger the inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis) and the formation of gallstones. The client should avoid foods that are high in fat, such as fried foods, cheese, butter, cream, and fatty meats.

Choice B reason: Citrus fruit and melon with a salt substitute are not a problem for a client with cholecystitis, unless they have other conditions that require dietary modifications, such as diabetes or kidney disease. The client should eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, grains, and lean proteins.

Choice C reason: Pasta with herbal butter and no meat sauce is also acceptable for a client with cholecystitis, as long as the butter is used sparingly and the pasta is not cooked with oil or cheese. The client should limit the intake of refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, rice, and sugar, and choose whole grains instead.

Choice D reason: Canned vegetables with additional table salt are not recommended for a client with cholecystitis, because they are high in sodium, which can increase the risk of fluid retention and hypertension. The client should reduce the intake of salt and processed foods, such as canned soups, sauces, and snacks, and use herbs and spices to flavor the food.

Choice A reason: Varicella is another name for chickenpox, which is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Herpes zoster, also known as shingles, is a reactivation of the same virus that causes a painful rash along a nerve pathway. People who have had chickenpox are at risk of developing shingles later in life, especially if their immune system is weakened. Asking the client if everyone at home has already had varicella can help the nurse determine the risk of transmission and the need for isolation precautions.

Choice B reason: Antifungal creams are not effective for herpes zoster, which is caused by a virus, not a fungus. Antifungal creams are used to treat fungal infections, such as athlete's foot, ringworm, or candidiasis. Asking the client if the antifungal creams have been effective is not relevant to the condition and can indicate a lack of knowledge or a misdiagnosis.

Choice C reason: Dry patches on the feet and hands are not typical signs of herpes zoster, which usually causes a blistering rash along a nerve pathway. Dry patches on the feet and hands can be caused by other conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or diabetes. Asking the client if they have any dry patches on their feet and hands is not helpful to assess the condition and can divert the attention from the main problem.

Choice D reason: Sharing combs and brushes is not a common mode of transmission for herpes zoster, which is spread by direct contact with the fluid from the blisters. Sharing combs and brushes can transmit other infections, such as lice, scabies, or impetigo. Asking the client if their family members share combs and brushes is not pertinent to the condition and can imply a poor hygiene or a stigma.