Which nursing action is most appropriate to prevent dehydration in a client with Addison's disease?

Which nursing action is most appropriate to prevent dehydration in a client with Addison's disease?

• A. Encourage increased sodium intake
• B. Encourage decreased fluid intake
• C. Encourage low-protein foods
• D. Maintain a low-sodium diet

Answer: (A)

In Addison's disease, a deficiency of aldosterone leads to loss of sodium in the urine, which pulls water with it and reduces circulating volume. Because of this, dehydration and hypovolemia are major concerns. Encouraging increased sodium intake helps replenish the sodium lost and supports intravascular fluid volume, which helps prevent dehydration and keeps blood pressure more stable. This is paired with adequate fluid intake and close monitoring of intake and output, vital signs, weight, and electrolytes. Decreasing fluids or restricting sodium would worsen dehydration and hyponatremia, and focusing on low-protein or low-sodium diets does not address the underlying mineralocorticoid deficiency.

In Addison's disease, a deficiency of aldosterone leads to loss of sodium in the urine, which pulls water with it and reduces circulating volume. Because of this, dehydration and hypovolemia are major concerns. Encouraging increased sodium intake helps replenish the sodium lost and supports intravascular fluid volume, which helps prevent dehydration and keeps blood pressure more stable. This is paired with adequate fluid intake and close monitoring of intake and output, vital signs, weight, and electrolytes. Decreasing fluids or restricting sodium would worsen dehydration and hyponatremia, and focusing on low-protein or low-sodium diets does not address the underlying mineralocorticoid deficiency.