If a client with Addison's disease shows signs of hypoglycemia, what is an appropriate nursing action?

If a client with Addison's disease shows signs of hypoglycemia, what is an appropriate nursing action?

• A. Provide a glucose-containing snack or IV dextrose as prescribed
• B. Restrict fluids
• C. Increase potassium intake
• D. Apply cold compresses

Answer: (A)

In Addison’s disease, cortisol deficiency impairs gluconeogenesis and glucose mobilization, so hypoglycemia can occur. When hypoglycemia is present, the priority is to quickly raise blood glucose by providing a glucose source—either a glucose-containing snack if the client can eat, or IV dextrose as prescribed. This direct intervention addresses the low glucose level and helps prevent neuroglycopenic symptoms. After administering glucose, monitor blood glucose levels and the patient’s clinical status, and ensure ongoing fluid and electrolyte balance, since adrenal insufficiency can also cause hyponatremia and hyperkalemia. The other actions don’t treat hypoglycemia and won’t improve the immediate need for glucose.

In Addison’s disease, cortisol deficiency impairs gluconeogenesis and glucose mobilization, so hypoglycemia can occur. When hypoglycemia is present, the priority is to quickly raise blood glucose by providing a glucose source—either a glucose-containing snack if the client can eat, or IV dextrose as prescribed. This direct intervention addresses the low glucose level and helps prevent neuroglycopenic symptoms. After administering glucose, monitor blood glucose levels and the patient’s clinical status, and ensure ongoing fluid and electrolyte balance, since adrenal insufficiency can also cause hyponatremia and hyperkalemia. The other actions don’t treat hypoglycemia and won’t improve the immediate need for glucose.