LEGEND

Disease
Definition
Etiology
Signs and symptoms
Nursing Interventions
Medical Management
 Autoimmune Goal of Therapy
 Idiopathic atrophy of the adrenal glands
Due to decreased cortisol/aldosterone
 Iatrogenic – due to surgical removal of both glands
 Infections (e.g.,TB/Histoplasmosis) Addison’s Disease
 Secondary to hypofunctions of the pituitary gland Results when adrenal cortex function is
 Sudden cessation of the exogenous adrenocortical hormone therapy inadequate to meet the patient’s need for
cortical hormones
Administration of medications Over secretion, exposure to cold,
a. Hydrocortisone (Solu- acute infections Prevention of infection
cortef) given thru IV
b. Vasopressor amine if Anorexia
hypotension persist
c. Antibiotics Gastrointestinal symptoms Restoring fluid balance
To combat shock
Monitor vital signs Severe/chronic dehydration

Muscular weakness Improving activity intolerance

Oral intake as tolerated to (Quiet and non-stressful
Emaciation (haggard
prevent hypovolemic shock activities)
To restore blood circulation looking/extreme leanness)
Administer fluids (5% dextrose in Monitoring for Addisonian
Mental status changes
NSS and corticosteroids) crisis’ s/sx :
(depression, apathy, emotional
a. Hypotension
Place patient in recumbent lability)
b. Rapid, weak
position with legs elevated respiratory rate
Addisonian crisis with disease
c. Extreme weakness
progression and acute
Supplementary dietary intake d. Pallor
hypotension
(i.e., pickles)
Dark pigmentation of the skin Promoting community and
home-based care