A client with Addison's disease becomes weak, confused, and dehydrated following the onset of an acute viral infection. The client's laboratory values include a sodium of 129 mEq/L (129mmol/L), a glucose of 54 mg/dL (2.97 mmol/L), and a potassium of 5.3 mEq/L (5.3 mmol/L). When reporting the findings to the healthcare provider, the nurse anticipates a prescription for which intravenous medication? Reference Range Sodium [136 to 145 mEq/L (136 to 145 mmol/L)] Glucose [74 to 106 mg/dL (4.1 to 5.9mmol/L)] Potassium [3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L)]

A. Hydrocortisone: In Addison's disease, there is adrenal insufficiency leading to decreased cortisol production. During times of stress or illness, such as in this case of an acute viral infection, cortisol replacement therapy (such as hydrocortisone) is crucial to supplement the deficient endogenous cortisol production. This helps to manage the client's weakened state and stabilize their condition. B. Potassium chloride: While the client's potassium level is elevated, indicating hyperkalemia, administering potassium chloride intravenously would exacerbate the hyperkalemia and potentially lead to further complications, such as cardiac arrhythmias. C. Regular insulin: Regular insulin is indicated for the treatment of hyperglycemia, but the client's glucose level is low, indicating hypoglycemia. Administering regular insulin in this scenario would further decrease the client's blood glucose level, worsening their condition. D. Broad spectrum antibiotic: While an acute viral infection may predispose the client to secondary bacterial infections, there is no indication from the client's presentation or laboratory values suggesting a need for broad spectrum antibiotics at this time. The priority is addressing the adrenal crisis and stabilizing the client's condition with appropriate cortisol replacement therapy.