Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 79%
Simulated
A staff nurse is teaching a client who has Addison's disease about the disease process. The client asks the nurse what causes Addison's disease. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
Addison's disease is indeed caused by the lack of production of hormones by the adrenal glands, particularly cortisol and aldosterone. Aldosterone helps to maintain blood pressure and the balance of sodium and potassium in the blood. When the adrenal glands do not produce enough aldosterone, it can lead to symptoms such as low blood pressure and salt cravings, which are characteristic of Addison's disease.