A client is brought to the emergency department via rescue squad in acute adrenal crisis. Which action by the nurse is the priority?

a. Start an IV line if the client does not al-ready have one.
b. Administer hydrocortisone sodium succi-nate (Solu-Cortef).
c. Instruct the nursing assistant to check the client's blood glucose.
d. Administer 20 units of insulin and 20 mg of dextrose in normal saline.


A
All actions are appropriate for the client with adrenal crisis. However, therapy is given IV, 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 hyperka-lemia.

Nursing

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