Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Test

What is a common sign of Addison's disease?

1. Increased adrenal hormone

2. Decreased adrenal hormone

3. Elevated glucose levels

4. Increased sodium levels

The correct answer is: Decreased adrenal hormone

Addison's disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is characterized by insufficient production of adrenal hormones, particularly cortisol and aldosterone, due to damage to the adrenal glands. This leads to a variety of clinical manifestations. One of the hallmark signs of this condition is decreased levels of adrenal hormones, which is why the correct answer is related to decreased adrenal hormone levels. In Addison's disease, because the adrenal glands are unable to produce adequate amounts of cortisol and aldosterone, patients often present with symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and hyperpigmentation of the skin. Additionally, the lack of aldosterone leads to imbalances in sodium and water, often resulting in hyponatremia (low sodium levels) and dehydration. The other options presented do not align with the pathology of Addison's disease. For instance, increased adrenal hormone levels would suggest overactivity rather than the deficiency characteristic of Addison's. Similarly, elevated glucose levels are typically not observed; in fact, patients may experience hypoglycemia due to insufficient cortisol. Lastly, increased sodium levels would not be associated with this disease, as the condition often leads to decreased sodium reabsorption due to the lack of aldosterone. Thus, the characteristic finding of decreased adrenal