A client has a history of atrial fibrillation and is taking an oral anticoagulant. The client has been newly diagnosed with hypothyroidism and placed on levothyroxine.
What assessment should the nurse prioritize?
Monitoring the client for increased bruising.
Assessing for signs and symptoms of infection.
Assessing the client’s level of consciousness.
Monitoring the client’s electrolyte levels.
The Correct Answer is A
This is because levothyroxine can increase the anticoagulant effect of oral anticoagulants and increase the risk of bleeding. The nurse should check the client’s prothrombin time and international normalized ratio (INR) regularly and report any abnormal values to the prescriber.
Choice B is wrong because hypothyroidism does not increase the risk of infection.
Choice C is wrong because hypothyroidism does not affect the level of consciousness unless it is severe and causes myxedema coma.
Choice D is wrong because hypothyroidism does not cause electrolyte imbalances.
Normal ranges for prothrombin time are 11 to 13.5 seconds and for INR are 0.8 to 1.22.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is because cortisol exhibits a proper 24-h circadian rhythm that affects the cardiovascular system and other organs. Cortisol levels are normally low at the beginning of sleep and high at the moment of awakening. Taking corticosteroids at this time mimics the natural cortisol rhythm and may reduce side effects such as adrenal suppression, sleep disturbances and cardiovascular complications.
Choice A is wrong because taking corticosteroids at 08:00 may not coincide with the client’s natural cortisol peak and may cause insomnia or unpleasant dreams.
Choice B is wrong because taking corticosteroids at 22:00 may disrupt the client’s sleep quality and increase the risk of nocturnal hypertension.
Choice D is wrong because taking corticosteroids at 16:00 may interfere with the client’s natural cortisol decline and cause hyperglycemia or dyslipidemia.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The nurse would assess these factors to determine the need for therapy. Some possible explanations for the other choices are:
Choice A. Number of times client’s family reports the client is nauseated.
This is not a reliable indicator of the severity or cause of nausea and vomiting.
The nurse should assess the client directly and not rely on the family’s reports.
Choice B. How well the client is eating.
This is not a specific or objective measure of nausea and vomiting.
The client may have other reasons for not eating well, such as loss of appetite, taste changes, or pain.
The nurse should also monitor the client’s weight, hydration status, and electrolyte levels.
Choice D. Client’s nutritional status and fluid balance.
These are important aspects of the client’s overall health, but they are not directly related to nausea and vomiting.
The nurse should assess these factors as part of the comprehensive care plan, but they are not sufficient to determine the need for therapy.
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