What should the nurse assess for in a patient receiving mitotane therapy?

In a patient receiving mitotane therapy, assessing muscle strength is essential due to the drug's effects on the adrenal cortex and its potential to influence cortisol levels. Mitotane is an adrenal cortical suppressant used predominantly in the treatment of adrenal tumors, particularly adrenocortical carcinoma. As it reduces cortisol production, patients may experience side effects such as fatigue, weakness, and decreased muscle strength.

Monitoring muscle strength is critical because a decline may indicate insufficient adrenal function or the impact of the medication on the patient's overall energy and physical capacity. Evaluating for changes in muscle strength helps guide appropriate management and support for the patient during their treatment.

Other aspects such as improvement in blood pressure, weight gain, or increased urination, while relevant in certain contexts, are not the primary focus of assessment when monitoring the effects of mitotane therapy specifically. Blood pressure can vary based on numerous factors and might not provide direct insight into the efficacy of mitotane. Weight gain is typically not expected and may suggest other underlying issues, while increased urination is not directly linked to the therapeutic effects of mitotane. Therefore, prioritizing muscle strength assessment is aligned with the specific pharmacological objectives of mitotane therapy.