Medical-surgical Nursing Demystified

(Sean Pound) #1

CHAPTER 8 Endocrine System^351


NURSING INTERVENTION



  • Daily weighing to monitor fluid status.

  • Monitor input and output to ensure adequate hydration.

  • Monitor for glucose and acetone in urine as elevated levels of corticosteroids
    may produce hyperglycemia.

  • Allow for adequate rest to allow the body to stabilize.

  • Avoid trauma to the skin because elevated levels of corticosteroids can delay
    wound healing.

  • Bone densitometry to assess for osteoporosis as corticosteroids can leech
    calcium from the bone.

  • Following surgery:

    • Assist in early ambulation, deep breathing, coughing to facilitate mucous
      mobilization and decrease risk for emboli.

    • Monitor incision site for drainage, erythema, and signs of infection.



  • Explain to patient:

    • Maintain a high-calorie, high-calcium diet to aid in wound repair and
      replace calcium.

    • Administer pain medication as needed.




Primary Aldosteronism (Conn’s Syndrome)


WHAT WENT WRONG?


The adrenal cortex is secreting an excessive amount of aldosterone caused by
an adrenal tumor, a malfunctioning adrenal cortex, or sources outside the adrenal
gland producing aldosterone. Some medications, such as calcium channel block-
ers, can lower aldosterone levels which can confuse the diagnosis.


PROGNOSIS


The patient can expect a normal life span, if diagnosed and treated early.


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