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1200

Client reports headache, nausea, and has vomited bile-stained emesis Three times in 1 hour (100mL). Watery loose stools x5 Has been NPO since 2100 last njght due to scheduled upper endoscopy


What is the priority medication the nurse should administer?


Answer Options

Hint : Adrenal crisis = give steroids first

Correct Answers:

  • Hydrocortisone 200 mg IV


Rationale :

🔷 Addisonian crisis risk – The client with Addison’s disease presenting with vomiting, diarrhea, and inability to take oral medications is at high risk for adrenal crisis due to acute cortisol deficiency. Immediate glucocorticoid replacement is the priority.

🔷 Hydrocortisone is the drug of choice – It provides both glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid effects, correcting hypotension, electrolyte imbalance, and hypoglycemia that accompany adrenal crisis.

🔷 Prevents life-threatening complications – Without prompt hydrocortisone administration, the client may develop shock, severe hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, and hypoglycemia, which can be fatal.

🔷 IV route is essential – Because the client is NPO and vomiting, oral replacement is ineffective. IV administration ensures rapid therapeutic action.


Distractor Analysis :

Rationale for Incorrect Options to be Available Soon

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