A client has been diagnosed with myxedema from long-standing hypothyroidism. What clinical manifestations of this disorder does the nurse recognize as progressing to myxedema coma? Select all that apply.
Hypertension
Restlessness
Increased level of alertness
Tachycardia
Hypotension
Bradycardia
Hypoventilation
Hyperventilation
Correct Answer : E,F,G
Choice A reason:
Hypertension is not typically associated with myxedema coma. Myxedema coma is characterized by severe hypothyroidism, which usually leads to low blood pressure (hypotension) rather than high blood pressure (hypertension). Therefore, hypertension is not a clinical manifestation that indicates progression to myxedema coma.
Choice B reason:
Restlessness is not a common symptom of myxedema coma. Patients with myxedema coma often present with lethargy, confusion, or even coma due to the severe slowing of metabolic processes. Restlessness is more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism or other conditions that increase metabolic activity.
Choice C reason:
An increased level of alertness is contrary to the symptoms of myxedema coma. Myxedema coma typically presents with decreased mental status, including confusion, stupor, or coma. Therefore, an increased level of alertness would not be indicative of progression to myxedema coma.
Choice D reason:
Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) is not a typical symptom of myxedema coma. Instead, myxedema coma is associated with bradycardia (slow heart rate) due to the severe hypothyroid state. Tachycardia is more commonly seen in hyperthyroid conditions.
Choice E reason:
Hypotension (low blood pressure) is a key clinical manifestation of myxedema coma. The severe hypothyroid state leads to decreased cardiac output and vascular resistance, resulting in hypotension. This is a critical sign that the nurse should recognize as indicative of progression to myxedema coma.
Choice F reason:
Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is another hallmark of myxedema coma. The decreased metabolic rate in severe hypothyroidism leads to a reduced heart rate. Recognizing bradycardia is essential in identifying the progression to myxedema coma.
Choice G reason:
Hypoventilation (reduced breathing rate) is a significant symptom of myxedema coma. The severe hypothyroid state can lead to respiratory depression, resulting in hypoventilation. This can further exacerbate the patient’s condition and requires immediate medical attention.
Choice H reason:
Hyperventilation (increased breathing rate) is not associated with myxedema coma. Patients with myxedema coma typically experience hypoventilation due to the severe slowing of metabolic processes. Hyperventilation would be more indicative of conditions that increase metabolic activity or respiratory drive.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
A rosebud-like stoma orifice is a normal finding for a newly created colostomy. This appearance indicates that the stoma is healthy and well-formed. The stoma should protrude slightly from the abdomen and have a pink or red color, similar to the inside of the mouth. This indicates good blood flow and proper healing. Therefore, a rosebud-like stoma orifice does not need to be reported to the provider.
Choice B Reason:
A stoma oozing red drainage can be concerning, but it is not uncommon for a new stoma to have some minor bleeding or oozing, especially in the immediate postoperative period. This can occur due to the delicate nature of the tissue and the recent surgical intervention. However, if the drainage is excessive or persistent, it should be monitored closely and reported if it does not improve. Minor oozing is generally expected and does not necessarily indicate a serious problem.
Choice C Reason:
A shiny, moist stoma is a normal finding and indicates that the stoma is healthy. The stoma should be moist and have a shiny appearance, similar to the inside of the mouth. This moisture is necessary for the proper function and health of the stoma. Therefore, a shiny, moist stoma does not need to be reported to the provider.
Choice D Reason:
A purplish-colored stoma is an abnormal finding and should be reported to the provider immediately. This discoloration can indicate compromised blood flow to the stoma, which can lead to tissue necrosis if not addressed promptly. A healthy stoma should be pink or red, indicating good blood circulation. Any deviation from this color, especially a purplish or dark color, is a sign of potential ischemia or other serious complications that require immediate medical attention.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Aspirating the stomach contents is essential to ensure the nasogastric tube is correctly positioned in the stomach. This step helps verify that the tube has not migrated and is safe for medication administration. If the aspirate is not obtained, further steps should be taken to confirm the tube’s placement.
Choice B Reason:
Checking the residual volume is important to assess the stomach’s contents and ensure that the patient is tolerating the feedings or medications. High residual volumes may indicate delayed gastric emptying or other gastrointestinal issues. This information helps guide the timing and amount of medication administration.
Choice C Reason:
Removing the tube and placing it in the other nostril is not a standard practice before administering medication. This action is unnecessary and could cause discomfort or complications for the patient. The focus should be on verifying the tube’s placement and ensuring it is functioning correctly.
Choice D Reason:
Testing the stomach contents for a pH indicating acidity is a reliable method to confirm the nasogastric tube’s placement. Gastric contents typically have a pH of 1 to 5, indicating the tube is in the stomach. This step helps ensure the safe administration of medications.
Choice E Reason:
Turning off the suction to the nasogastric tube is necessary before administering medications. Suction can interfere with the absorption of the medication and may cause the medication to be removed from the stomach before it has a chance to take effect. Therefore, it is important to turn off the suction temporarily during medication administration.
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