Maternity and Pediatric Nursing 4th Edition Test Bank Related

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. A client is admitted to the health care facility for evaluation for Addison's disease. Which laboratory test result best supports a diagnosis of Addison's disease?

  • A. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of
  • B. Serum sodium level of 134 mEq/L
  • C. Serum potassium level of 5.8 mEq/L
  • D. Blood glucose level of 90 mg/dl
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Addison's disease, also known as adrenocortical insufficiency, is characterized by a deficiency in adrenal cortex hormones, particularly glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids. One of the characteristic findings in Addison's disease is hyperkalemia, which is an elevated serum potassium level. This is due to the lack of aldosterone production by the adrenal glands, leading to decreased potassium excretion by the kidneys. Therefore, a serum potassium level of 5.8 mEq/L would best support a diagnosis of Addison's disease among the given laboratory test results.