What assessment finding would rule out adrenal insufficiency after an ACTH stimulation test?

The assessment finding that would rule out adrenal insufficiency following an ACTH stimulation test is elevated cortisol levels. This test is designed to evaluate how well the adrenal glands respond to ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone). In a normal response, the adrenal glands will secrete a sufficient amount of cortisol when stimulated by ACTH.

If the cortisol levels are elevated after the test, it indicates that the adrenal glands are functioning properly and are capable of producing cortisol in response to stimulation, thus ruling out adrenal insufficiency. This is critical for confirming that the adrenal glands are not underactive.

Conversely, low cortisol levels after stimulation would suggest adrenal insufficiency, while stable blood glucose and normal sodium levels do not specifically indicate the functioning of the adrenal glands, making them less useful in ruling out adrenal insufficiency in this context.