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Adrenal insufficiency is an endocrine condition defined as the inadequate production or action of glucocorticoids, principally a steroid hormone called cortisol. While rare in childhood, it carries the risk of adrenal crisis in the event of a child becoming unwell as a result of intercurrent illness, injury or surgery. Children's nurses must be vigilant in caring for a child with adrenal insufficiency and have a clear understanding and awareness of the principles of emergency management at home and in hospital.

The endocrine disorder adrenal insufficiency includes inadequate production of the steroid hormone cortisol. This results in poor physiological responses to illness, trauma or other stressors and risk of adrenal crisis. Management is based on administration of hydrocortisone. It is important to avoid under- or over-treatment and increase the dosage during times of physiological stress. To reduce morbidity, hospital admissions and mortality, the education and empowerment of parents and carers, and prompt intervention when necessary are essential. A steroid therapy card for adrenal insufficiency containing personal information on a patient's condition was developed for use by families and their specialist centres.