The nurse is caring for a patient with Cushing's syndrome. The nurse should instruct the patient to

Explanation

• Patients with Cushing's syndrome are at risk for peptic ulcers due to increased gastric acid secretion, immunosuppression, and poor wound healing. The patient should understand the signs of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding.

• Hypercholesterolemia is a result of Cushing's syndrome, so the patient should be encouraged to decrease cholesterol intake.

• Potassium intake should be encouraged to prevent hypokalemia associated with Cushing's.

• Weight-bearing exercise should be encouraged to reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a common complication of Cushing's syndrome.

Visit our website for other NCLEX topics now!