Cushing’s syndrome (Cushing’s disease, Hypercortisolism, Adrenal Hyperfunction) is a cluster of clinical abnormalities caused by excessive levels of adrenocortical hormones (particularly cortisol) or related corticosteroids and, to a lesser extent, androgens and aldosterone. Show
What is Cushing’s Syndrome?Cushing’s syndrome is a disorder of the endocrine system.
Statistics and IncidencesIncidences of Cushing syndrome are already common worldwide.
CausesCauses of Cushing’s syndrome include the following:
Clinical ManifestationsLike other endocrine disorders, Cushing’s syndrome induces changes in multiple body systems, depending on the adrenocortical hormone involved.
ComplicationsComplications of Cushing’s syndrome include the following:
Assessment and Diagnostic FindingsTo detect Cushing’s syndrome, the following are performed:
Medical ManagementTreatment to restore hormonal balance and reverse Cushing’s syndrome may necessitate radiation, drug therapy, or surgery.
Pharmacologic TherapyFollowing the prescribed drug therapy could necessitate recovery.
Surgical ManagementRemoval of the adrenal or pituitary gland offers a greater success rate for the recovery of the patient.
Nursing ManagementThe nurse must closely monitor the patient with Cushing’s syndrome to avoid complications. Nursing AssessmentAssessment focus on the effects on the body of high concentrations of adrenal cortex to respond to changes in cortisol and aldosterone levels.
Nursing DiagnosisBased on the assessment data, the major nursing diagnoses of the patient with Cushing’s syndrome include:
Nursing Care Planning & GoalsThe major nursing goals for the patient include:
Nursing InterventionsNursing interventions for a patient with Cushing’s syndrome include: Decreasing Risk of Injury
Decreasing Risk of Infection
Preparing Patient for Surgery
Encouraging Rest and Activity
Promoting Skin Integrity
Improving Body Image
Improving Thought Processes
Monitoring and Managing Complications
Teaching Patients Self-Care
EvaluationExpected patient outcomes may include the following:
Discharge and Home Care GuidelinesThe patient and the family should be informed that adrenal insufficiency and underlying symptoms may recur if discharge orders are not complied.
Documentation GuidelinesThe focus of documentation should include:
Practice Quiz: Cushing’s SyndromeHere’s a 5-item quiz about the study guide. Please visit our nursing test bank page for more NCLEX practice questions. 1. A positive diagnosis of Cushing’s syndrome is associated with: A. The disappearance of lymphoid tissue. 2. Clinical manifestations of Cushing’s syndrome may be modified with a diet that is: A. High in protein. 3. Confirmatory diagnosis of Cushing’s syndrome is made through: A. Transsphenoidal hypophysectomy. 4. Nursing interventions appropriate for a patient with Cushing’s syndrome include: A. Monitoring fluid intake and output. 5. What is included in the Cushing’s triad? A. Buffalo hump. Answers and Rationale 1. Answer: D. All of the above.
2. Answer: D. All of the above.
3. Answer: C. Low-dose dexamethasone suppression test.
4. Answer: A. Monitoring fluid intake and output.
5. Answer: D. All of the above
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