Question

In a client with adrenal insufficiency due to a damaged adrenal cortex or pituitary dysfunction, what treatment option may be considered?

a) Low sodium diet
b) Adrenalectomy
c) Administration of glucocorticoids to supplement cortisol
d) Increased fluid intake to manage symptoms of dehydration

Answer 1

In cases of adrenal insufficiency, the considered treatment is the administration of glucocorticoids to supplement cortisol, which is critical for patients to maintain hormone balance and manage symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

For a client with adrenal insufficiency due to a damaged adrenal cortex or pituitary dysfunction, the treatment option that may be considered is the administration of glucocorticoids to supplement cortisol. Since the adrenal insufficiency can manifest as Addison's disease, characterized by symptoms like low blood pressure, paleness, fatigue, and cravings for salt, this condition requires cortisol replacement therapy to compensate for insufficient cortisol production and maintain the necessary hormonal balance. Treatments for conditions such as Cushing syndrome, contrastingly focused on reducing excessive cortisol levels, do not apply. It's important that treatment for adrenal insufficiency is continuous and personalized to the patient's needs.