A female presenting with symptoms is diagnosed with Addison's disease and started on hydrocortisone and fluocortisone. At 9:00, 12:00, and 15:00, she informs the doctor that she ha... A female presenting with symptoms is diagnosed with Addison's disease and started on hydrocortisone and fluocortisone. At 9:00, 12:00, and 15:00, she informs the doctor that she has a night shift. What is the appropriate step?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking what the appropriate adjustment to the medication regimen should be for a female patient with Addison's disease who is starting night shifts and has been prescribed hydrocortisone and fluocortisone. It is essential to understand the timing and dosing of glucocorticoids in relation to the patient's new work schedule.
Answer
Adjust medication timing for night shift coverage.
The patient should adjust the timing of her medication to better align with her night shift. She may need to discuss with her doctor to adjust her hydrocortisone dosing schedule to ensure coverage during the hours she is awake and active.
Answer for screen readers
The patient should adjust the timing of her medication to better align with her night shift. She may need to discuss with her doctor to adjust her hydrocortisone dosing schedule to ensure coverage during the hours she is awake and active.
More Information
In patients with Addison's disease, it is crucial to adjust medication timing to match their daily activity cycles, especially if shifts vary.
Tips
Common mistakes include not rearranging medication timing when shift work changes, leading to inadequate cortisol coverage.
Sources
- Addison's disease - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic - mayoclinic.org
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