Which nursing measure would be effective in preventing complications in a client with Addison's disease?

• A. Restricting fluid intake
• B. Offering foods high in potassium
• C. Checking family support systems
• D. Monitoring the blood glucose

Answer: (D)

The main concept is the risk of hypoglycemia in Addison's disease due to cortisol deficiency. Cortisol helps stimulate gluconeogenesis and maintain normal blood glucose, especially during stress or illness. When cortisol is lacking, blood sugar can drop, leading to confusion, seizures, or even coma if not addressed.

Monitoring blood glucose allows early detection of falling glucose levels and enables prompt intervention, such as giving a glucose source or adjusting glucocorticoid therapy, to prevent hypoglycemic complications. This direct link to a potential metabolic crisis makes it the most effective nursing measure for preventing complications in Addison's disease.

Restricting fluid intake would worsen dehydration and electrolyte imbalances that are already a concern in Addison's. Foods high in potassium could worsen hyperkalemia resulting from aldosterone deficiency. Checking family support systems is important for overall care, but it does not directly prevent a metabolic complication.