Question

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client undergoing screening for primary Cushing's disease. The nurse should expect an elevation in which of the following laboratory findings?

1) Lymphocyte count
2) Potassium
3) Calcium
4) Glucose

Answer 1

The nurse should expect an elevation in blood glucose levels for a client being screened for primary Cushing's disease due to the hypersecretion of cortisol, which raises glucose levels. The correct option is 4).

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse reviewing the laboratory results of a client undergoing screening for primary Cushing's disease should expect an elevation in the client's blood glucose levels.

Cushing's disease is a disorder characterized by the hypersecretion of cortisol, which can cause a variety of symptoms including high blood glucose levels, rapid weight gain, accumulation of fat on the face and neck, and weak muscles.

Cortisol stimulates the synthesis of glucose and gluconeogenesis by liver cells and, in excess, leads to higher levels of glucose in the blood to maintain energy availability between meals.

Therefore, among the options provided: 1) Lymphocyte count, 2) Potassium, 3) Calcium, and 4) Glucose, the expected elevation in a patient with primary Cushing's disease would be number 4) Glucose.