The nurse is preparing a client for discharge who was recently diagnosed with Addison’s disease. Which instruction is most important for the nurse to include in this client’s discharge teaching plan?

Choice A rationale Taking prescribed cortisone accurately is the most important instruction for a client diagnosed with Addison’s disease. Cortisone is a type of glucocorticoid replacement therapy that helps to manage the symptoms of Addison’s disease and prevent adrenal crisis, a life-threatening condition characterized by acute insufficiency of adrenal hormones. Choice B rationale Using a walker when weakness occurs may be helpful for some clients with Addison’s disease, as muscle weakness is a common symptom. However, it is not the most important instruction. The primary treatment for Addison’s disease is hormone replacement therapy, which should help to alleviate symptoms such as muscle weakness. Choice C rationale Avoiding extreme environmental temperatures can be beneficial for individuals with Addison’s disease, as they may have difficulty regulating body temperature due to cortisol deficiency. However, this is not the most important instruction. The cornerstone of managing Addison’s disease is hormone replacement therapy. Choice D rationale Increasing daily intake of sodium in the diet can be beneficial for some individuals with Addison’s disease, particularly during periods of gastrointestinal illness or intense physical activity. However, this is not the most important instruction. The primary treatment for Addison’s disease is hormone replacement therapy.