Medical Emergencies · single question
What should you do for the previous patient (Addison's Disease) regarding dental treatment?
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Correct answer: C. Consult with the physician
Consult with the physician (C) is the appropriate first action for a patient with Addison's Disease requiring dental treatment. The physician must assess: (1) current steroid dose, (2) level of adrenal function, (3) whether steroid stress dosing (supplementation) is needed for the planned procedure.
• Option B (prescribe corticosteroids without consulting) is incorrect — only the prescribing physician should manage steroid dosing. The dentist should not independently prescribe steroid supplementation.
• Addisonian Crisis: a life-threatening acute adrenal insufficiency triggered by physiologic stress (including dental procedures). Signs: severe hypotension, tachycardia, nausea, loss of consciousness. Emergency: hydrocortisone 100mg IV.
• For routine procedures under local anesthesia with minimal stress, modifications may not be needed — but physician clearance confirms this.
• Option B (prescribe corticosteroids without consulting) is incorrect — only the prescribing physician should manage steroid dosing. The dentist should not independently prescribe steroid supplementation.
• Addisonian Crisis: a life-threatening acute adrenal insufficiency triggered by physiologic stress (including dental procedures). Signs: severe hypotension, tachycardia, nausea, loss of consciousness. Emergency: hydrocortisone 100mg IV.
• For routine procedures under local anesthesia with minimal stress, modifications may not be needed — but physician clearance confirms this.
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