A nurse is caring for a client who has Cushing's syndrome. Which of the following interventions should the nurse expect to perform? (Select all that apply)
Explanation & Rationale
Rationale: A. Weigh the client daily: Clients with Cushing’s syndrome are at risk for rapid weight gain due to fluid retention and fat redistribution. Daily weights help monitor fluid balance and detect worsening edema or fluid overload early. B. Monitor for postural hypotension: Cushing’s syndrome is typically associated with hypertension caused by fluid retention and increased sensitivity to catecholamines. Postural hypotension is more often seen in conditions with cortisol deficiency, such as Addison’s disease. C. Monitor for an irregular heart rate: Excess cortisol can cause hypokalemia, which predisposes clients to cardiac dysrhythmias and irregular heart rates. Monitoring cardiac rhythm is essential to prevent complications from electrolyte imbalances. D. Assess for neck vein distention: While fluid retention occurs in Cushing’s syndrome, neck vein distention is not a typical hallmark sign. Jugular vein distention is more closely associated with right-sided heart failure rather than cortisol excess alone. E. Assess blood glucose level: Cortisol increases gluconeogenesis and reduces insulin sensitivity, leading to hyperglycemia. Clients with Cushing’s syndrome require close glucose monitoring to manage steroid-induced diabetes and prevent complications.