A nurse in a clinic is reviewing the laboratory values of a client who has primary hypothyroidism.
Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse anticipate an elevation of?
Free T4
Serum T3
Serum T4
Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
The Correct Answer is D
A. In primary hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland fails to produce sufficient thyroid hormone.
Consequently, free T4 levels are typically decreased.
B. Although serum T3 levels may also decrease in primary hypothyroidism due to impaired thyroid function, TSH is the primary marker used for diagnosis and monitoring.
C. Similarly, serum T4 levels may decrease in primary hypothyroidism due to decreased synthesis by the thyroid gland.
D. In primary hypothyroidism, the anterior pituitary gland releases more TSH to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. Therefore, elevated TSH levels are characteristic of primary hypothyroidism.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hyperglycemia is associated with diabetes mellitus, not diabetes insipidus. Diabetes insipidus is characterized by excessive thirst and urination due to inadequate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), not hyperglycemia.
B. Dehydration is a hallmark finding in diabetes insipidus due to excessive urination and fluid loss. Clients with diabetes insipidus may exhibit signs of dehydration, such as dry mucous membranes, decreased skin turgor, and hypotension.
C. Bradycardia is not typically associated with diabetes insipidus.
D. Polyphagia, or excessive hunger, is a symptom of diabetes mellitus, not diabetes insipidus.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Polyuria (excessive urination) is not typically associated with low calcium levels. It may occur in conditions such as diabetes mellitus or diabetes insipidus.
B. Hypocalcemia (low calcium levels) can lead to neuromuscular irritability, which may manifest as muscle tremors or spasms. This is a classic sign of hypocalcemia.
C. Dry, sticky mucous membranes are more indicative of dehydration rather than hypocalcemia.
D. Negative Chvostek's sign means the absence of facial muscle twitching upon tapping the facial nerve, which is not expected in hypocalcemia.
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