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Following a transsphenoidal hypophysectomy, the nurse should assess the client carefully for?

1) hypocortisolism
2) hyperglycemia
3) hypoglycemia
4) hypercalcemia

1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

After a transsphenoidal hypophysectomy, it is important to monitor the patient for hypocortisolism and its consequent hypoglycemia, which can be symptoms of Addison's disease.Hence, the correct options are 1 and 3.

Step-by-step explanation:

Following a transsphenoidal hypophysectomy, the nurse should assess the client carefully for hypocortisolism. This condition may lead to Addison's disease, which is marked by hypoglycemia, among other symptoms such as low blood sodium levels, bronzing of the skin, fatigue, and general weakness. Hypocortisolism happens due to the hyposecretion of corticosteroids, which results in lower cortisol levels. Monitoring for signs of low blood sugar is critical after this type of surgery, given that it involves the removal of pituitary tissue that regulates the adrenal cortex.