A client is diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Which signs/symptoms should the nurse expect the client to exhibit?
Tetany and complaints of stiffness of the hands.
Exophthalmos and complaints of nervousness.
Reports of extreme fatigue and hair loss.
Reports of profuse sweating and flushed skin.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason : Tetany and stiffness of the hands are not typical symptoms of hypothyroidism. Tetany is usually associated with hypocalcemia, which is not a direct result of hypothyroidism⁶.
Choice B reason : Exophthalmos and nervousness are symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism, not hypothyroidism. Exophthalmos, the bulging of the eyes, is particularly associated with Graves' disease, a type of hyperthyroidism⁶.
Choice C reason : Extreme fatigue and hair loss are common symptoms of hypothyroidism. The condition can lead to a slowing down of the body's metabolic processes, resulting in fatigue. Hair loss is also a frequent complaint due to the effects of reduced thyroid hormone levels on hair follicles⁶⁷⁸.
Choice D reason : Profuse sweating and flushed skin are more indicative of hyperthyroidism or other conditions, not hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism typically leads to cold intolerance and dry skin⁶.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason : The symptoms described for the 40-year-old woman align closely with the clinical presentation of a pulmonary embolism. Swelling and pain in the calf may indicate deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can lead to PE. The presence of chest pain, difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate (tachycardia), and rapid breathing (tachypnea) are hallmark signs of PE³⁴.
Choice B reason : While the 60-year-old man is experiencing fatigue, which can be a symptom of many conditions, there is no direct indication of PE. Acute kidney injury (AKI) after IV antibiotics suggests a different pathophysiology unrelated to PE.
Choice C reason : The 30-year-old man's refusal to ambulate or wear compression stockings after surgery increases his risk for DVT and subsequently PE; however, he does not currently exhibit symptoms that are as indicative of PE as the 40-year-old woman.
Choice D reason : The 55-year-old woman's symptoms could suggest a cardiac event, such as a heart attack, especially with the radiating jaw pain. While PE can present with similar symptoms, the radiating pain is more characteristic of cardiac issues³.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason : While it is true that a healthcare provider may come to explain the situation, this response does not directly address the parent's concern about the reason for the nurse's action. It is important for the nurse to communicate clearly and directly about their responsibilities and the actions they have taken.
Choice B reason : This response indicates that the nurse has taken action by reporting to a supervisor, but it does not clarify the nurse's legal obligation to report suspected child abuse. It is essential for nurses to understand and communicate their role as mandated reporters to ensure transparency and trust in the healthcare setting¹.
Choice C reason : This is the most appropriate response because it directly addresses the parent's question and explains the nurse's legal responsibility. Nurses are mandated reporters and are legally required to report any suspicions of child abuse to protect the child's welfare. This response is clear, direct, and upholds the nurse's professional and legal obligations¹³.
Choice D reason : While contacting a supervisor may be part of the protocol, this response does not provide the parent with an explanation for the nurse's action. It is important for the nurse to explain their legal duty to report suspected child abuse, which is the primary reason for their action.
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