A nurse is caring for a client with a pheochromocytoma. Which assessment finding will the nurse expect for this client?
Decreased pulse
Elevated blood pressure
Cold intolerance
Decreased respiratory rate
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale:
A. A decreased pulse is not typically associated with pheochromocytoma. This condition is characterized by the excessive release of catecholamines, which usually leads to an increased heart rate.
B. Pheochromocytoma is a tumor of the adrenal medulla that causes excessive secretion of catecholamines, leading to episodic or sustained hypertension. Elevated blood pressure is a hallmark symptom of this condition.
C. Cold intolerance is more commonly associated with hypothyroidism and is not a typical finding in pheochromocytoma.
D. Decreased respiratory rate is not characteristic of pheochromocytoma; instead, clients may experience symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, and headaches due to the elevated catecholamine levels.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Increasing carbohydrate intake is not recommended for clients with Cushing's disease as they are already at risk for hyperglycemia and weight gain due to the effects of excess cortisol.
B. Decreasing protein intake is not advisable because clients with Cushing's disease often suffer from muscle wasting and weakness. Adequate protein is necessary to help maintain muscle mass.
C. Clients with Cushing's disease should increase their intake of calcium and vitamin D because they are at risk for osteoporosis due to the effects of chronic corticosteroid exposure, which can lead to decreased bone density.
D. Clients with Cushing's disease often experience hypokalemia (low potassium levels), so limiting potassium-rich foods would not be beneficial. Instead, they should ensure adequate potassium intake.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Hypertension can be a symptom of many conditions and is not specific to HHS.
B. Fruity breath is typically associated with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) due to the presence of acetone, not HHS.
C. Ketosis is a key feature of DKA, not HHS. In HHS, ketosis is usually absent or minimal.
D. A glucose level of 650 mg/dL is indicative of HHS, which is characterized by extremely high blood glucose levels without significant ketosis. HHS often occurs in type 2 diabetes and is marked by severe hyperglycemia, dehydration, and altered mental status.