Which of the following electrolyte abnormalities would be expected in a client with Cushing's syndrome?

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Cushing's syndrome is characterized by excessive levels of cortisol in the body, which can significantly affect various electrolyte levels and metabolic processes. In this condition, hypernatremia, which is an elevated sodium level, can occur because cortisol promotes sodium retention in the kidneys. This retention leads to an increase in total body sodium and consequently increases blood volume and blood pressure.

Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, is also commonly seen in patients with Cushing's syndrome. Cortisol has a mineralocorticoid effect that encourages potassium excretion in exchange for sodium reabsorption in the renal tubules, resulting in a decrease in serum potassium levels.

Additionally, hyperglycemia is characteristic of Cushing's syndrome due to the glucocorticoid effects of cortisol, which can induce insulin resistance and lead to elevated blood glucose levels.

Thus, the combination of hypernatremia, hypokalemia, and hyperglycemia aligns accurately with the expected electrolyte abnormalities associated with Cushing's syndrome. Other combinations do not reflect the typical metabolic derangements that occur in this condition.

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