LEGEND
Disease
Autoimmune
Idiopathic atrophy of the adrenal glands
Iatrogenic due to surgical removal of both glands
Infections (e.g.,TB/Histoplasmosis)
Secondary to hypofunctions of the pituitary gland
Addisons Disease
Sudden cessation of the exogenous adrenocortical
hormone therapy
Administration of
medications
a. Hydrocortisone
(Solu-cortef) given
thru IV
b. Vasopressor amine if
To combat shock
hypotension persist
Monitor vital signs
Oral intake as tolerated to
To restore blood circulation prevent hypovolemic shock
Administer fluids (5%
dextrose in NSS and
Place patient in recumbent
position with legs elevated
Supplementary dietary
intake (i.e., pickles)
Definition
Etiology
Signs and symptoms
Nursing Interventions
Medical Management
Goal of Therapy
Due to decreased
cortisol/aldosterone
Results when adrenal cortex function
is inadequate to meet the patients
need for cortical hormones
Over secretion, exposure to
Prevention of infection
cold, acute infections
Anorexia
Gastrointestinal symptoms Restoring fluid balance
Severe/chronic dehydration
Muscular weakness Improving activity
intolerance
Emaciation (haggard (Quiet and non-stressful
looking/extreme leanness) activities)
Monitoring for Addisonian
Mental status changes
crisis s/sx :
(depression, apathy, a. Hypotension
emotional lability) b. Rapid, weak
respiratory rate
Addisonian crisis with disease c. Extreme weakness
progression and acute d. Pallor
hypotension
Promoting community and
Dark pigmentation of the skin home-based care