What is a nursing priority for a hospitalized patient with Cushing disease?

What is a nursing priority for a hospitalized patient with Cushing disease?

• A. Treating fluid overload
• B. Starting aggressive diuresis
• C. Managing pain with NSAIDs
• D. Encouraging exercise

Answer: (A)

Fluid balance is the key issue in Cushing disease because excess cortisol has mineralocorticoid-like effects that promote sodium and water retention, leading to edema and hypertension. The most important nursing action in a hospitalized patient is to monitor and manage fluid status: track intake and output, monitor daily weights and blood pressure, assess for edema or crackles in the lungs, and adjust care as ordered to prevent fluid overload and related complications. Aggressive diuresis isn’t a default priority and can cause electrolyte disturbances or hypotension unless specifically ordered. NSAIDs pose risks such as GI ulcers and kidney strain and aren’t a frontline focus, and encouraging exercise isn’t appropriate during acute hospitalization when the patient’s stability and fluid/electrolyte balance require careful management. Focus on stabilizing fluid balance and monitoring related metabolic effects.

Fluid balance is the key issue in Cushing disease because excess cortisol has mineralocorticoid-like effects that promote sodium and water retention, leading to edema and hypertension. The most important nursing action in a hospitalized patient is to monitor and manage fluid status: track intake and output, monitor daily weights and blood pressure, assess for edema or crackles in the lungs, and adjust care as ordered to prevent fluid overload and related complications. Aggressive diuresis isn’t a default priority and can cause electrolyte disturbances or hypotension unless specifically ordered. NSAIDs pose risks such as GI ulcers and kidney strain and aren’t a frontline focus, and encouraging exercise isn’t appropriate during acute hospitalization when the patient’s stability and fluid/electrolyte balance require careful management. Focus on stabilizing fluid balance and monitoring related metabolic effects.