A nurse in a clinic is reviewing the laboratory values of a client who has primary hypothyroidism. The nurse should anticipate an elevation of which of the following laboratory values?
Free T4
Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
Serum T3
Serum T4
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
In primary hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland is underactive and does not produce sufficient thyroid hormones, including Free T4. Therefore, we would not expect an elevation of Free T4 in primary hypothyroidism; instead, its levels would typically be low or normal.
Choice B reason:
Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels are elevated in primary hypothyroidism because the pituitary gland releases more TSH in an attempt to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce more thyroid hormones. This is a compensatory response to the low levels of circulating thyroid hormones, particularly thyroxine (T4).
Choice C reason:
Serum T3 levels may be low or normal in primary hypothyroidism. T3 is the active form of thyroid hormone and is usually converted from T4. If T4 levels are low, T3 levels may also be affected; however, T3 levels are not the primary diagnostic marker for hypothyroidism and do not typically show elevation in this condition.
Choice D reason:
Serum T4 levels are typically low in primary hypothyroidism because the thyroid gland is not producing enough of this hormone. An elevation of serum T4 would not be expected unless the patient is receiving treatment for hypothyroidism.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Damage to cartilage and bone can progressively worsen. This is a characteristic of osteoarthritis. The disease is a degenerative joint disease that results in the loss of cartilage, which cushions the ends of bones in joints. As the disease progresses, the cartilage becomes thinner and may wear away entirely, causing the bones to rub against each other. This can result in pain, stiffness, and loss of joint movement.
Choice B reason:
Organ failure in later stages may occur without treatment. This statement is not typically associated with osteoarthritis. While osteoarthritis can significantly impact a person's quality of life, it does not directly cause organ failure. However, it's important to manage osteoarthritis effectively to maintain overall health and prevent secondary complications.
Choice C reason:
Inflammation will resolve over time. This is not typically true for osteoarthritis. While some people with osteoarthritis may experience periods of reduced symptoms, the underlying disease process does not resolve over time. In fact, osteoarthritis usually worsens over time.
Choice D reason:
There will be periods of flare-ups and remission of symptoms. This is true for many people with osteoarthritis. Symptoms can vary and may become more severe during periods of activity or stress on the joint. Conversely, symptoms may decrease during periods of rest or with effective management strategies.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
While autoimmune disorders are associated with type 1 diabetes, where the immune system attacks the pancreas, they are not typically a direct risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is more closely related to lifestyle factors and insulin resistance.
Choice B reason:
A 40-year-old client with hypoglycemia may be at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Hypoglycemia can be a sign of pre-diabetes or insulin resistance, where the body's response to insulin is not as effective, leading to fluctuations in blood sugar levels. As individuals age, their risk for type 2 diabetes increases, particularly if they have other risk factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, overweight, or a family history of diabetes.
Choice C reason:
Lack of sleep can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes by affecting the body's ability to regulate glucose and by increasing insulin resistance. However, without additional risk factors, it is not as strong a predictor of type 2 diabetes as the presence of hypoglycemia or other metabolic conditions.
Choice D reason:
Having never given birth is not a recognized risk factor for type 2 diabetes. While gestational diabetes is a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes later in life, the absence of pregnancy does not increase the risk.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today