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

Choice A reason : Avoidant personality disorder is characterized by a pervasive pattern of social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation. Individuals with this disorder may avoid work activities or decline job offers due to fears of criticism or rejection. However, they do not typically exhibit a need for constant reassurance or an inability to make decisions, which are more indicative of dependent personality disorder⁵⁶.

Choice B reason : Borderline personality disorder involves a pattern of instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and affects, and marked impulsivity. While individuals with borderline personality disorder may exhibit dependency traits, they are more likely to engage in frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment and may have a pattern of unstable and intense interpersonal relationships⁷⁸.

Choice C reason : Dependent personality disorder is characterized by a pervasive and excessive need to be taken care of, leading to submissive and clinging behavior and fears of separation. Individuals with this disorder often require excessive advice and reassurance from others to make everyday decisions and may feel helpless when alone due to exaggerated fears of being unable to care for themselves. The need for constant reassurance and inability to make decisions align with the symptoms of dependent personality disorder¹²³⁴.

Choice D reason : Schizoid personality disorder is characterized by a lack of interest in social relationships, a tendency toward a solitary lifestyle, secretiveness, emotional coldness, detachment, and apathy. Individuals with schizoid personality disorder prefer to be alone and do not seek out social interactions or relationships. They do not typically display the need for reassurance or the inability to make decisions, as seen in dependent personality disorder¹²¹³¹⁴.

Choice A reason : Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which means it helps the body get rid of excess water without causing potassium loss. Therefore, a decreased potassium level would not be expected.

Choice B reason : Spironolactone can lead to hyperkalemia (increased potassium levels) and hyponatremia (decreased sodium levels) because it causes the kidneys to excrete sodium while retaining potassium.

Choice C reason : A decreased phosphate level is not a typical finding associated with spironolactone use. Phosphate levels are more commonly affected by renal function and parathyroid hormone levels.

Choice D reason : A decreased chloride level is not specifically associated with spironolactone. While electrolyte imbalances can occur, spironolactone primarily affects potassium and sodium balance.