When assessing a male client with pheochromocytoma, a tumor of the adrenal medulla that secretes excessive catecholamine.. a blood pressure of 176/88 mm Hg

When assessing a male client with pheochromocytoma, a tumor of the adrenal medulla that secretes excessive catecholamine, nurse April is most likely to detect:

• a- a blood pressure of 130/70 mm Hg.
• b- a blood glucose level of 130 mg/dl.
• c- bradycardia.
• d- a blood pressure of 176/88 mm Hg.

Answer D.

Pheochromocytoma, a tumor of the adrenal medulla that secretes excessive catecholamine, causes hypertension, tachycardia, hyperglycemia, hypermetabolism, and weight loss.
It isn’t associated with the other options.

The most likely symptom that nurse April will detect in a male client with pheochromocytoma is d- a blood pressure of 176/88 mm Hg.

Causes:

Here's why:

Pheochromocytoma is a tumor of the adrenal medulla that secretes excessive catecholamines, hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline.

Symptoms of pheochromocytoma:

These hormones cause various symptoms, including:

- High blood pressure:

This is the most common symptom of pheochromocytoma, with readings often reaching significantly high levels like 176/88 mm Hg.

- Headache:

Caused by the constriction of blood vessels in the brain.

- Excessive sweating:

Due to the stimulation of sweat glands by catecholamines.

- Rapid heartbeat:

Also known as tachycardia, caused by the direct effect of catecholamines on the heart.

Anxiety and nervousness: Mimicking the symptoms of a panic attack.

- Pale appearance:

Caused by the constriction of blood vessels in the skin.

- Nausea and vomiting:

Less common symptoms but can still occur.

Therefore, the elevated blood pressure is the most likely symptom nurse April will detect in this scenario.

Here's why the other options are incorrect:

a- a blood pressure of 130/70 mm Hg:

This is considered a normal blood pressure range. Pheochromocytoma typically causes significantly higher readings.

b- a blood glucose level of 130 mg/dl:

While pheochromocytoma can sometimes cause glucose intolerance, it wouldn't necessarily lead to a specific blood sugar level of 130 mg/dl. This level can be seen in healthy individuals too.

c- bradycardia:

This refers to a slow heart rate, which is the opposite of what happens in pheochromocytoma. The excessive catecholamines cause tachycardia, increasing the heart rate.