Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

In Addison's crisis, the body's ability to produce glucocorticoids is severely impaired, leading to significant metabolic disturbances. One of the hallmark symptoms is decreased glucose levels, which can result from an inadequate adrenal response and the body's inability to adequately mobilize gluconeogenesis during times of stress.

Additionally, sodium levels are typically low due to the decreased aldosterone production that accompanies adrenal insufficiency. Aldosterone is responsible for sodium retention in the kidneys; thus, its absence leads to hyponatremia.

Potassium levels, on the other hand, can become elevated, a condition known as hyperkalemia. In the absence of adequate aldosterone, which normally helps excrete potassium, the body can become overloaded with this electrolyte, contributing to further complications such as cardiac arrhythmias.

These symptoms—decreased glucose, decreased sodium, and increased potassium—are critical in recognizing and managing an Addison's crisis effectively. Understanding these changes can guide appropriate intervention strategies to restore hormonal balance and stabilize the patient’s condition.