Disease Process
This is insufficiently produced in the adrenal gland with Addison's disease.
Steroids
What part of the health history is priority in assessing Addisons disease?
Fluid imbalance and stress
What is the primary method to diagnose Addisons?
Laboratory tests
What kinds of foods are recommended by the nurse during GI disturbances and hot weather?
Immediate treatment is directed towards combating circulatory shock __________
Restoring blood circulation
The most known cause of Addisons disease
Autoimmune disorder
Orthostatic blood pressures
What labs are ordered to diagnosis Addisons?
Early-morning serum cortisol and plasma ATCH
What kind of hormones are prescribed in Addisons?
Glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids
What position do you place a patient during treatment of adrenal crisis?
Recumbent with legs elevated
What electrolytes are increased and retained with the loss of mineralocorticoids in Addison's disease
Sodium, Chloride and Potassium
What kind of activity should a person with Addisons avoid?
Strenuous activity in hot, humid weather
What additional labs could also indicate Addisons?
CBC and CMP
Unnecessary activity and stress can precipitate what type of episode in Addisons?
Hypotensive episode
What is administered by IV for treatment
Hydrocortisone
What are patients with Addison's disease at risk to develop that can lead to shock
Addisonian Crisis
What are the signs and symptoms of shock in Addisonian crisis
Hypotension, Tachycardia, tachypnea, pallor and extreme weakness
What findings indicate primary adrenal insufficiency?
Increased plasma ATCH level and a low serum cortisol concentration
How long is a patient on hormone replacement therapy for Addisons?
Lifelong
Why is IV fluid decreased after oral intake begins during treatment?
To prevent hypovolemia
Secondary adrenal insufficiency may result from the sudden cessation of ________ _______ hormonal therapy.
Exogenous adrenocortical
What physical and psychological stressors should be avoided to prevent Addisonian crisis
Cold exposure, overexertion, infection, and emotional distress.
What effect does Addisons have on blood glucose levels?
Hypoglycemia
What should a patient with Addison's carry with them at all times?
What is the first thing you should do when you walk into a patients room with Addisons?
WASH YOUR HANDS