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Adrenal insufficiency sick-day rules — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardEndocrine TherapeuticsAdrenal insufficiency sick-day rulesGPhC CRA

A 28-year-old woman with adrenal insufficiency takes hydrocortisone. She has a fever and is vomiting, and her partner asks whether she should wait for her next routine dose. What is the most appropriate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: E — Seek urgent medical help because parenteral steroid cover may be needed

Vomiting in adrenal insufficiency can prevent oral steroid absorption and may precipitate adrenal crisis. Urgent medical assessment and parenteral hydrocortisone may be required. Patients should have sick-day rules and emergency steroid plans.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS