A client who has a history of hypothyroidism was admitted with lethargy and confusion. Which additional finding warrants immediate action by the nurse?
Haematocrit of 30% (0.30 volume fraction).
Facial puffiness and periorbital enema.
Further decline in level of consciousness.
Cold and dry skin.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: A haematocrit of 30% is below the normal range and indicates anaemia, which is common in hypothyroidism. However, it does not require immediate intervention compared to a decline in consciousness.
Choice B reason: Facial puffiness and periorbital enema are common signs of hypothyroidism but do not require immediate intervention. They are more indicative of chronic, rather than acute, issues.
Choice C reason: A further decline in level of consciousness is critical and warrants immediate action. It can indicate a myxoedema coma, a severe complication of hypothyroidism that is life-threatening and requires urgent treatment.
Choice D reason: Cold and dry skin is a common symptom of hypothyroidism but does not require immediate intervention compared to a decline in consciousness.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Elevating the head of the bed to 90 degrees is crucial for clients in respiratory distress. This position helps to maximize lung expansion, improve breathing, and alleviate respiratory effort. It provides immediate support to enhance oxygenation and ventilation.
Choice B reason: Monitoring pulse oximetry is important for assessing the client's oxygenation status but should be done continuously rather than every 2 hours in a client in respiratory distress.
Choice C reason: Determining exposure to asthmatic triggers is relevant for long-term management but not the immediate priority in an acute situation where the client is in respiratory distress.
Choice D reason: Teaching the proper use of a rescue inhaler is essential but should be done after stabilizing the client's condition. The immediate focus should be on interventions that provide rapid relief from respiratory distress.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Determining if the client has a sliding scale insulin prescription is crucial. A sliding scale insulin regimen can help manage elevated blood glucose levels effectively. In the case of a capillary glucose of 365 mg/dL, prompt intervention is needed to prevent hyperglycaemia-related complications, and insulin administration is the most appropriate immediate action.
Choice B reason: Stopping the infusion until the healthcare provider is notified may not be the best immediate action. While it is essential to address the hyperglycaemia, halting the parenteral nutrition infusion can affect the client's overall nutritional and fluid balance. The focus should be on managing the glucose levels promptly.
Choice C reason: Assessing the client's urinary output for the previous 24 hours is important for monitoring overall fluid status and kidney function, but it does not directly address the immediate need to manage the elevated glucose levels.
Choice D reason: Reviewing the client's record for a history of diabetes mellitus can provide valuable information for long-term management and understanding the client's baseline glucose control. However, it is not the most urgent action in response to an acutely elevated capillary glucose level. Immediate intervention with insulin is needed to address the hyperglycaemia.
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