A hospitalized patient is diagnosed with a pheochromocytoma, a tumor of the adrenal medulla. Which clinical manifestation should the nurse expect to observe?

Explanation

• A pheochromocytoma is a tumor of the adrenal medulla. It results in the hypersecretion of catecholamines, such as norepinephrine

• Signs and symptoms are related to the effects of the increased catecholamines: tachycardia, hypertension, palpitations, headaches, weight loss, and hyperglycemia

• Elevated hemoglobin and hematocrit are signs of polycythemia

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