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. Elevated PaCO2 would be seen in respiratory acidosis, not metabolic acidosis.
B. Metabolic acidosis is characterized by a decreased pH.
C. This result would indicate metabolic alkalosis, not metabolic acidosis.
D. This result would indicate hypoxemia but is not specific to metabolic acidosis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
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.
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