A client is diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Which signs/symptoms should the nurse expect the client to exhibit?

Choice A reason: Encouraging interaction with others by having the client share a room might be overwhelming for a client experiencing hypomanic episodes. Hypomania can involve irritability and impulsivity, making shared spaces potentially stressful. It's important to balance social interaction with the need for a controlled environment¹.

Choice B reason: Providing a calm atmosphere by placing the client in a private room can be beneficial for someone experiencing hypomanic episodes. A private room can reduce overstimulation and help manage symptoms like restlessness, agitation, and sleep disturbances. It allows the client to have a quiet space to retreat to, which can be crucial in managing mood swings¹².

Choice C reason: While a cheerful environment may seem beneficial, having bright drapes in the client's room could potentially contribute to overstimulation. Clients with hypomania are often sensitive to environmental stimuli, so it's important to keep the setting subdued to avoid exacerbating symptoms¹.

Choice D reason: Promoting access to activities by assigning the client to a room near the dayroom can be a double-edged sword. While it facilitates engagement in structured activities, which can be therapeutic, it also increases the risk of overstimulation due to the proximity to a potentially busy and noisy area. Careful consideration of the client's current state is necessary when making this decision¹.

Choice A reason : When a patient stops taking oral prednisone abruptly after prolonged use, the body may not immediately resume normal production of cortisol, which is a hormone that prednisone mimics. This can lead to adrenal insufficiency, a condition where the body produces insufficient amounts of cortisol. Symptoms can include fatigue, weakness, weight loss, abdominal pain, and low blood pressure¹². It is crucial for patients to understand the need to taper off the medication gradually under medical supervision to avoid this potentially serious condition.

Choice B reason : Memory complications are not typically associated with the sudden cessation of prednisone. While some patients may experience mood swings or cognitive changes while taking prednisone, these are not the primary concerns when discontinuing the medication.

Choice C reason : Cardiovascular complications are not directly related to the sudden stoppage of prednisone. However, adrenal insufficiency can indirectly affect cardiovascular health due to the role of cortisol in maintaining blood pressure and cardiovascular function.

Choice D reason : Psychosis is a possible side effect of taking prednisone, especially at high doses, but it is not a common withdrawal symptom. Withdrawal symptoms are more likely to include physical signs of cortisol deficiency rather than severe psychiatric symptoms.