A client who is admitted for primary hypothyroidism has early signs of myxedema coma.
In assessing the client, in which sequence should the nurse complete these actions? (Rank the first action at the top with the remainder in descending order.).
Palpate for pedal edema.
Assess blood pressure.
Measure body temperature.
Observe breathing patterns.
The Correct Answer is D,B,C,A
Rationalizing the Priority
1. Airway/Breathing (D):
The "A" and "B" of the ABCs take precedence. In myxedema coma, hypoventilation is a primary concern. The client may experience respiratory muscle weakness or a decreased drive to breathe, leading to CO₂ retention and respiratory failure. Assessing the rate, depth, and effort of breathing is the absolute first step.
2. Circulation (B):
Once the airway is confirmed, you assess the "C" (Circulation). Myxedema coma causes severe bradycardia and decreased cardiac output, which leads to hypotension. Assessing blood pressure tells the nurse if the client is in cardiogenic shock.
3. Vital Signs/Metabolic State (C):
Hypothermia is a hallmark sign of myxedema coma (temperatures can often drop below 95°F or 35°C). While critical, it is addressed after ensuring the heart is pumping and the lungs are moving air. Monitoring temperature is vital because rapid rewarming can actually cause vasodilation and worsen shock.
4. Focused Physical Assessment (A):
Palpating for edema is an important part of a head-to-toe assessment for hypothyroidism (non-pitting mucinous edema is common), but it is not a life-saving intervention. It is a secondary assessment compared to the vital signs and respiratory status.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Tetracycline antibiotics can form insoluble complexes with calcium, reducing their absorption when taken together. Therefore, advising the client to continue taking calcium supplements with food while on tetracycline therapy is not recommended as it may decrease the effectiveness of the antibiotic.
Choice B rationale:
The nurse should advise the client to avoid taking calcium supplements while on tetracycline therapy. Calcium-containing products (such as supplements, dairy products, and antacids) should be taken at least 2 hours before or after tetracycline administration to minimize the interference with drug absorption.
Choice C rationale:
Taking calcium supplements with tetracycline, even with plenty of water, can still lead to reduced drug absorption due to the formation of insoluble complexes. Therefore, this advice is not appropriate.
Choice D rationale:
The nurse should recommend that the client take calcium supplements at least 2 hours before or after tetracycline. This approach ensures that the client receives the full therapeutic benefit of the antibiotic while still meeting their calcium needs separately.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should consider the patient's physical abilities and limitations when planning recreational activities because this information is crucial for ensuring the safety and appropriateness of the activities. For example, a patient with limited mobility may benefit from activities that can be done in a seated position, while a patient with greater physical abilities may be able to engage in more active pursuits.
Choice B rationale:
The patient's cognitive abilities and limitations should also be taken into account when planning activities. Some patients may have cognitive impairments that require simpler, more straightforward activities, while others may be able to participate in more complex or intellectually stimulating options. This ensures that the activities are enjoyable and suitable for the individual's cognitive capacity.
Choice C rationale:
Considering the patient's interests and preferences is essential to make the recreational activities meaningful and enjoyable. It is important to involve patients in activities they find interesting and pleasurable, as this can have a positive impact on their emotional and psychological well-being during the rehabilitation process.
Choice E rationale:
The patient's cultural and religious background is an important consideration when planning activities. Some activities may be more or less acceptable to individuals from different cultural or religious backgrounds. It's essential to respect cultural and religious preferences to ensure that the activities do not cause discomfort or offense to the patients.
Choice D rationale:
The patient's age and gender are not the primary factors to consider when selecting appropriate activities for individuals in a rehabilitation and restorative care setting. Age and gender do not necessarily determine a person's interests, physical abilities, or cognitive limitations. Therefore, they are not as relevant as the other factors listed in this context.
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