The nurse is assessing a client with Addison’s disease. The nurse expects to note which of the following?

  • craving of salty foods
  • weight gain
  • craving of sweet foods
  • hyperactivity
Number 1 is correct.
The impaired ability of the adrenal gland to produce the hormone aldosterone (a mineralocorticoid), which helps the kidney retain sodium, results in a craving for salty foods. Weight loss is associated with the disease. Loss of appetite, rather than craving for sweet foods, is consistent with Addison’s disease. Fatigue and muscle weakness are typically seen with Addison’s disease.