Which of the following conditions explains the body's inability to conserve water and sodium when affected by Addison's disease?
elevated levels of cortisol
decreased levels of ACTH
hypersecretion of ADH
Aldosterone deficiency
The Correct Answer is D
A. Elevated levels of cortisol: High cortisol levels are not characteristic of Addison’s disease; instead, cortisol is deficient. Elevated cortisol would promote sodium and water retention, which is the opposite of the fluid and electrolyte loss seen in Addison’s disease.
B. Decreased levels of ACTH: In primary Addison’s disease, ACTH levels are actually elevated as the pituitary attempts to stimulate the adrenal glands. Low ACTH would be more characteristic of secondary adrenal insufficiency.
C. Hypersecretion of ADH: Excess antidiuretic hormone promotes water retention, which does not occur in Addison’s disease. Clients with Addison’s typically lose sodium and water due to adrenal hormone deficiency rather than ADH excess.
D. Aldosterone deficiency: Aldosterone deficiency impairs the kidneys’ ability to reabsorb sodium and water, leading to hyponatremia, dehydration, and hypotension. This hormonal deficit is a hallmark of Addison’s disease and explains the body’s inability to conserve these electrolytes and fluids.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hyperchromic: Hyperchromic erythrocytes have an increased hemoglobin concentration and may appear darker than normal. Red blood cells have a limited ability to become truly hyperchromic, making this finding uncommon. It does not describe cells with reduced hemoglobin content.
B. Hypochromic: Hypochromic erythrocytes contain a decreased concentration of hemoglobin, resulting in a pale appearance with increased central pallor. This finding is commonly associated with disorders of hemoglobin synthesis such as iron deficiency anemia. It directly reflects low hemoglobin concentration within the erythrocytes.
C. Macrocytic: Macrocytic erythrocytes are larger than normal and are typically linked to vitamin B12 or folate deficiency. The defining feature is increased cell size rather than hemoglobin concentration. Macrocytosis does not specifically indicate reduced hemoglobin within the cells.
D. Microcytic: Microcytic erythrocytes are smaller than normal and are often seen in iron deficiency anemia or thalassemia. Although these cells may also be hypochromic, the term refers specifically to decreased cell size. It does not directly describe low hemoglobin concentration.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Weight gain and cold intolerance: These manifestations are typical of hypothyroidism rather than Graves disease. Hypothyroid clients often experience decreased metabolism, leading to weight gain and intolerance to cold temperatures, which contrasts with the hypermetabolic state of Graves disease.
B. Slow heart rate and rash: Bradycardia is associated with hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism. A rash is not a typical presenting feature of Graves disease. These findings do not align with the expected clinical picture of a client with excessive thyroid hormone activity.
C. Skin hot and moist and rapid heart rate: Graves disease is characterized by hyperthyroidism, which increases metabolism and sympathetic nervous system activity. Clients commonly present with warm, moist skin and tachycardia. Other expected findings include weight loss, heat intolerance, and tremors.
D. Constipation and confusion: Constipation is more common in hypothyroidism due to slowed gastrointestinal motility. Confusion may occur in severe thyroid storm or other metabolic disturbances but is not a typical initial manifestation of Graves disease.
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