When caring for a patient suffering from an Addisonian crisis, the nurse should question which of the following medication orders?
Explanation
• Addisonian crisis causes severe hyperkalemia. Potassium chloride is contraindicated and should be clarified with the prescriber.
• Addisonian crisis, or adrenal crisis, is a medical emergency caused by severe adrenocortical insufficiency.
• Addisonian crisis causes severe hypotension, dizziness, fatigue, hypoglycemia, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, hyperkalemia, hyponatremia, weakness, weight loss, and abdominal pain.
• Treatment includes the administration of hydrocortisone, saline, and dextrose.
• Vasopressors are not usually given, but can help maintain blood pressure.