A patient with Addison disease is experiencing weakness and abdominal pain and has an oral temperature of 102°F and blood pressure of 70/35. Which patient information should the nurse identify as potentially causing these manifestations?

Question

Select all that apply.
1. "I had my tonsils out last week."
2. "I have a pressure ulcer from sleeping in my recliner."
3. "I have been using a tanning bed."
4. "I take my prednisone (Deltasone) every day."
5. "I have been increasing my intake of calcium-rich foods."

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 1,2
Addisonian crisis is a life-threatening response to acute adrenal insufficiency. Triggers are surgery, acute systemic illness such as sepsis from a pressure ulcer, trauma, or abrupt withdrawal of long-term corticosteroid therapy. Patients are prescribed prednisone or related glucocorticoids to treat Addison disease; this is not a cause of Addisonian crisis. Intake of calcium-rich foods and the use of tanning beds are not associated with Addisonian crisis.