Pharmacology and the Nursing Process Test Bank Related

Review Pharmacology and the Nursing Process Test Bank related questions and content

Which of the following is the most common cause of hyperaldosteronism?

  • A. Excessive sodium intake
  • B. Deficient potassium intake
  • C. A pituitary adenoma
  • D. An adrenal adenoma
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: An adrenal adenoma. Adrenal adenoma is the most common cause of primary hyperaldosteronism, also known as Conn's syndrome. Adrenal adenomas are benign tumors that cause overproduction of aldosterone, leading to increased sodium retention and potassium excretion. This results in hypertension and hypokalemia. Excessive sodium intake (A) and deficient potassium intake (B) are not direct causes of hyperaldosteronism. A pituitary adenoma (C) is associated with other hormone imbalances, such as Cushing's syndrome or acromegaly, but not hyperaldosteronism.