ATI Pharmacology Proctored Exam Related

Review ATI Pharmacology Proctored Exam related questions and content

A client with Addison's disease is being admitted for a total hip arthroplasty. The client takes hydrocortisone for Addison's disease. What is the nurse's priority action?

  • A. Administering a supplemental dose of hydrocortisone
  • B. Instructing the client about coughing and deep breathing
  • C. Collecting additional information from the client about his history of Addison's disease
  • D. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The nurse's priority in this situation is to administer a supplemental dose of hydrocortisone. Clients with Addison's disease taking hydrocortisone are at risk of acute adrenal insufficiency during times of stress such as surgery. Administering supplemental doses of hydrocortisone helps prevent acute adrenal insufficiency (adrenal crisis) in these situations, making it the priority action to ensure the client's safety. Instructing the client about coughing and deep breathing is important postoperatively but not the priority at this time. Collecting additional information about the client's history of Addison's disease is important but not the priority action before surgery. Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is not the priority in this situation.