A patient is diagnosed with a unilateral pheochromocytoma.For which treatment should the nurse prepare this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The definitive treatment for a unilateral pheochromocytoma is surgical removal of the affected adrenal gland (adrenalectomy). This will eliminate the source of excessive catecholamine production and prevent the potential complications associated with uncontrolled hypertension. Smooth muscle relaxants, beta-adrenergic blocking agents, and alpha-adrenergic blocking agents may be used preoperatively to manage hypertension and prepare the patient for surgery, but they are not curative.

A Patient Is Diagnosed with a Unilateral Pheochromocytoma