A nurse is assessing a client who has Graves’ disease. The nurse should expect which of the following laboratory results?

Choice A reason: Pink frothy sputum is a classic sign of pulmonary edema, which can occur as a result of oxygen toxicity. When the alveoli in the lungs fill with fluid, it can lead to this type of sputum. This is a critical indicator that the client is experiencing severe respiratory distress and requires immediate medical attention.

Choice B reason: Substernal discomfort or chest pain is another symptom of oxygen toxicity. This discomfort arises due to the irritation and inflammation of the lung tissues caused by high levels of oxygen. It is essential to monitor and address this symptom promptly to prevent further complications.

Choice C reason: Nail clubbing is typically associated with chronic hypoxia and long-term lung diseases, but it is not an acute indicator of oxygen toxicity. Therefore, it is not relevant in this context.

Choice D reason: Restlessness is a common early sign of hypoxia and can also indicate oxygen toxicity. When the brain does not receive adequate oxygen, it can lead to symptoms such as restlessness, confusion, and agitation. This symptom should be taken seriously and addressed immediately.

Choice E reason: Cyanosis at the nail beds indicates a lack of oxygen in the blood, but it is not specific to oxygen toxicity. It can occur in various conditions where there is inadequate oxygenation, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or heart failure.

Choice A: You May Bring Some Music to Listen to for Distraction

Bringing music for distraction is generally not a standard instruction given before an EEG. While listening to music might help some patients relax, it is not a critical part of the preparation for the test. The primary focus of EEG preparation is to ensure accurate readings of brain activity, which can be influenced by various factors such as medication and sleep.

Choice B: Do Not Take Any Sedatives 12 to 24 Hours Before the Test

Avoiding sedatives before an EEG is crucial because these medications can alter brain activity and affect the test results. Sedatives can suppress the electrical activity in the brain, leading to inaccurate readings. Therefore, it is essential for patients to avoid taking any sedatives 12 to 24 hours before the test to ensure the EEG captures the brain’s natural activity.

Choice C: You Will Need to Have Someone to Drive You Home

This instruction is typically given if the patient is expected to be sedated or if the test involves procedures that might impair their ability to drive. However, for a standard EEG, patients are usually not sedated, and there is no need for someone to drive them home. This instruction is more relevant for other types of medical procedures that involve sedation.

Choice D: Please Do Not Have Anything to Eat or Drink After Midnight

Fasting is not a standard requirement for an EEG. Patients are generally allowed to eat and drink before the test. However, they are often advised to avoid caffeine as it can affect brain activity. The instruction to avoid food and drink after midnight is more commonly associated with procedures that require anesthesia or sedation, not an EEG.