A client who has a history of hypothyroidism was initially admitted with lethargy and confusion Which additional finding warrants the most immediate action by the nurse?

Facial puffiness and periorbital edema.

Cold and dry skin.

Further decline in level of consciousness.

Hematocrit of 30% (0.30).

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Facial puffiness and periorbital edema:
These are common signs of hypothyroidism but may not require immediate action unless accompanied by severe symptoms.

B. Cold and dry skin:
Cold and dry skin is a characteristic feature of hypothyroidism, but a further decline in the level of consciousness is a more urgent issue.

C. Further decline in the level of consciousness.
A decline in the level of consciousness is a critical sign that requires immediate attention, as it may indicate worsening hypothyroidism, myxedema coma, or other serious complications. Myxedema coma is a life-threatening condition associated with severe hypothyroidism, and it requires prompt medical intervention.

D. Hematocrit of 30% (0.30):
While anemia is a potential complication of hypothyroidism, a hematocrit of 30% alone may not be the most immediate concern compared to a decline in the level of consciousness.

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Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]

Explanation

A. Measure pulse and blood pressure:
This action is crucial to assess the client's cardiovascular status. Weakness and jitteriness can be related to changes in blood pressure or cardiac function. Measuring pulse and blood pressure helps determine the client's hemodynamic stability.

B. Document anxiety on the surgical checklist:
While anxiety is a valid consideration, addressing the physiological aspects of the client's symptoms takes precedence.

C. Assess skin temperature and moisture:
Assessing skin temperature and moisture provides information about the client's perfusion and hydration status. Changes in skin characteristics can be indicative of underlying issues, and in a diabetic patient, it's important to monitor for potential complications affecting skin integrity.

D. Check fingerstick glucose level:
Given the client's recent diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus and the reported symptoms of weakness and jitteriness, checking the fingerstick glucose level is crucial. Fluctuations in blood glucose levels, whether hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia, can contribute to these symptoms. This test provides immediate information about the client's glycemic status.

E. Administer a PRN dose of regular insulin:
If the fingerstick glucose level indicates hyperglycemia and the healthcare provider has prescribed a PRN (as needed) dose of regular insulin for high blood sugar, administering insulin may be necessary to address hyperglycemia promptly. This is in line with diabetes management protocols, and the nurse should follow specific orders and guidelines for insulin administration.

A. Evaluate upper and lower extremities for perfusion, pulse volume, and pitting edema. B. Listen for extra heart sounds, murmurs, and rhythm with the bell of the stethoscope. C. Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram and begin continuous cardiac monitoring. D. Verify troponin level assessments are scheduled every 3-6 hours for a series of three

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Evaluate upper and lower extremities for perfusion, pulse volume, and pitting edema:
This option focuses on assessing perfusion and circulation in the extremities. While it's important in certain situations, in the context of a client who recently underwent cardiac stent placement and is now experiencing chest pressure and shortness of breath, the priority is to assess the cardiac status more directly.

B. Listen for extra heart sounds, murmurs, and rhythm with the bell of the stethoscope:
This option involves auscultating the heart for abnormal sounds or rhythms. While it's a valuable assessment in general, in this particular scenario, obtaining an electrocardiogram (ECG) and initiating continuous cardiac monitoring would provide a more comprehensive and immediate evaluation of the cardiac status.

C. Obtain a 12-lead electrocardiogram and begin continuous cardiac monitoring:
This is the correct choice. Obtaining a 12-lead ECG and initiating continuous cardiac monitoring is crucial in assessing the client's cardiac function. It allows for the detection of any acute changes in the heart's electrical activity or rhythm, which is essential for timely intervention and management.

D. Verify troponin level assessments are scheduled every 3-6 hours for a series of three:
Monitoring troponin levels is important in assessing cardiac damage, but in this acute situation, obtaining an immediate ECG and initiating continuous cardiac monitoring take precedence for a more real-time evaluation of the client's cardiac status. Troponin levels may be monitored subsequently based on the initial findings.

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A client who has a history of hypothyroidism was initially admitted with lethargy and confusion Which additional finding warrants the most immediate action by the nurse?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Explanation

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Explanation

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