Which endocrine gland secretes cortisol?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer to the question, "Which endocrine gland secretes cortisol?" is option C) Adrenal cortex. Educational Rationale: 1. Adrenal Cortex (Option C) - This is the correct answer because the adrenal cortex, which is the outer portion of the adrenal gland, is responsible for secreting cortisol. Cortisol is a steroid hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, immune response, and stress response in the body. 2. Ovaries (Option A) - The ovaries are not responsible for secreting cortisol. Instead, they produce hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which are involved in the reproductive system and menstrual cycle. 3. Thyroid (Option B) - The thyroid gland secretes hormones like thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) that regulate metabolism. It is not involved in the production of cortisol. 4. Adrenal Medulla (Option D) - The adrenal medulla is the inner portion of the adrenal gland and is responsible for secreting hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline, which are involved in the body's fight-or-flight response. It does not produce cortisol. Educational Context: Understanding the endocrine system and the glands responsible for secreting specific hormones is crucial in the field of biology, physiology, and healthcare. Knowing which gland produces cortisol is important for understanding how the body responds to stress and maintains homeostasis. This knowledge is also essential for healthcare professionals when diagnosing and treating endocrine disorders related to cortisol production.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct response is option A) "That is a good range for your glucose levels." This response is the best choice because a blood glucose level between 80-90 mg/dL is within the normal range and indicates good control of blood sugar following a hypoglycemic episode. It shows that the patient's glucose levels have stabilized and are not excessively low or high. Option B is incorrect because suggesting an increase in insulin without assessing the patient's current condition could lead to hypoglycemia. Option C is incorrect as advising the patient to increase food intake without proper assessment could potentially lead to hyperglycemia. Option D is incorrect as reducing insulin dosage without proper guidance from a healthcare provider can also lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels. In an educational context, it's crucial for nurses to understand the management of blood glucose levels post-hypoglycemic episode and to support patients in maintaining stable levels within the target range. Providing accurate information and guidance empowers patients to manage their condition effectively and prevent complications related to blood sugar control.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In caring for a patient with nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, the treatment typically includes thiazide diuretics (Option C) because they can paradoxically decrease urine output by enhancing water reabsorption in the kidneys. Thiazides reduce the amount of urine produced, helping to manage the excessive urination characteristic of diabetes insipidus. Option A, fluid restriction, is not the primary treatment for nephrogenic diabetes insipidus because it can lead to dehydration without addressing the underlying issue of impaired kidney response to antidiuretic hormone. Option B, a high-sodium diet, would exacerbate the symptoms of diabetes insipidus by increasing urine output due to sodium's osmotic effect. Option D, chlorpropamide (Diabinese), is a sulfonylurea used to treat diabetes mellitus, not diabetes insipidus. In an educational context, understanding the appropriate treatment for nephrogenic diabetes insipidus is crucial for nursing students as it demonstrates the importance of differentiating between various types of diabetes and the tailored interventions required for each condition to ensure optimal patient outcomes. By grasping the rationale behind using thiazide diuretics in this scenario, students can apply this knowledge to clinical practice when caring for patients with similar conditions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of hyperparathyroidism, the correct nursing intervention of increasing fluid intake to 3000 to 4000 mL daily is crucial for several reasons. Hyperparathyroidism leads to increased levels of parathyroid hormone, which can result in hypercalcemia. Increasing fluid intake helps to prevent kidney stone formation, a common complication of hypercalcemia, by promoting urinary calcium excretion. Option A, padding side rails as a seizure precaution, is unrelated to the management of hyperparathyroidism. Seizures are not a typical manifestation of this condition. Option C, maintaining bed rest to prevent pathologic fractures, is not the best intervention for hyperparathyroidism. While bone resorption can lead to weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures in this condition, promoting bed rest can lead to further bone loss. Option D, monitoring the patient for Trousseau's and Chvostek's signs, is more indicative of hypocalcemia, not hypercalcemia associated with hyperparathyroidism. These signs are related to low calcium levels, not high levels seen in hyperparathyroidism. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind the correct intervention emphasizes the importance of managing fluid intake to prevent complications associated with hypercalcemia in patients with hyperparathyroidism. It also highlights the need for nurses to have a strong foundation in pathophysiology to provide effective and evidence-based care for patients with endocrine disorders.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) she has an infection that is increasing her insulin needs. When a person with diabetes like Mary experiences an infection, such as a fever, the body's stress response releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can counteract the effects of insulin. This leads to an increase in blood sugar levels and subsequently an increased need for insulin to maintain control. Option A) she has not been taking her insulin is incorrect because the symptoms described are more indicative of increased insulin requirements due to an infection rather than non-compliance. Option B) her urine-testing supplies are outdated is incorrect as the symptoms described are not related to faulty testing supplies but rather reflect physiological changes in response to an infection. Option D) she is resistant to insulin is incorrect because the symptoms described are more consistent with increased insulin requirements due to the stress response to an infection rather than insulin resistance. Educationally, understanding how infections can impact blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes is crucial for healthcare providers to effectively manage their patients' conditions. It highlights the importance of monitoring blood sugar levels closely during times of illness and adjusting insulin doses accordingly to prevent complications. This case also emphasizes the need for patients with diabetes to be vigilant in managing their condition during times of illness.