The nurse is assessing a 9-year-old girl with a history of tuberculosis at age 6 years. She has been losing weight and has no appetite. The nurse suspects Addison disease based on which of the following assessment findings?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hyperpigmentation and hypotension are classic signs of Addison's disease, which is a condition characterized by insufficient production of hormones by the adrenal glands. Hyperpigmentation occurs due to increased production of melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) as a byproduct of increased ACTH production in response to low cortisol levels. Hypotension results from decreased aldosterone production, leading to reduced sodium and water reabsorption by the kidneys.

The Nurse Is Assessing a 9-Year-Old Girl with a History