An emergency nurse cares for a client who is experiencing an acute adrenal crisis. Which action should the nurse take first?
a. Obtain intravenous access.
b. Administer hydrocortisone succinate (Solu-Cortef).
c. Assess blood glucose.
d. Administer insulin and dextrose.
ANS: A
All actions are appropriate for the client with adrenal crisis. However, therapy is given intravenously, so the priority is to establish IV access. Solu-Cortef is the drug of choice. Blood glucose is monitored hourly and treatment is provided as needed. Insulin and dextrose are used to treat any hyperkalemia.
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