What does the nurse identify as the cause of acute adrenal crisis?

Rationale: A. Acute renal failure is incorrect because, although kidney dysfunction can affect fluid and electrolyte balance, it is not the primary cause of adrenal crisis. Adrenal crisis results from hormonal insufficiency, not renal failure. B. Deficiency of corticosteroids is correct because acute adrenal crisis occurs when there is a sudden lack of cortisol, a corticosteroid produced by the adrenal cortex. Cortisol is essential for maintaining blood pressure, glucose metabolism, and the body’s stress response. A deficiency can result from primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease), secondary adrenal insufficiency (pituitary or hypothalamic dysfunction), or abrupt withdrawal of long-term corticosteroid therapy. This deficiency leads to hypotension, hypoglycemia, electrolyte imbalances (hyponatremia, hyperkalemia), shock, and altered mental status, making it a life-threatening emergency. C. Overdose of testosterone is incorrect because testosterone does not regulate cortisol or adrenal function and therefore cannot cause adrenal crisis. D. High doses of corticosteroids are incorrect because, while long-term corticosteroid use can suppress adrenal function, the crisis occurs primarily when the exogenous steroids are abruptly discontinued, leading to insufficient cortisol production. High doses themselves do not precipitate the crisis immediately.