A nurse is assessing a client who has Graves' disease and is taking methimazole. Which of the following findings indicates the client needs a lower dose of the medication?
Weight loss
Exophthalmos
Bradycardia
Diaphoresis
The Correct Answer is C
A. Weight loss: Weight loss is a common symptom of hyperthyroidism. If it persists, it may indicate that the current methimazole dose is insufficient rather than excessive.
B. Exophthalmos: Exophthalmos, or protrusion of the eyes, is a manifestation of Graves’ disease itself and is not directly affected by the dose of methimazole. Adjusting the dose typically does not improve eye symptoms.
C. Bradycardia: Bradycardia can indicate that methimazole has suppressed thyroid hormone levels too much, leading to hypothyroidism. A lower dose may be required to prevent excessive slowing of the heart rate.
D. Diaphoresis: Excessive sweating is a symptom of hyperthyroidism. If present, it suggests that thyroid hormone levels are still elevated, and a higher rather than lower dose of methimazole may be needed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "I should notify my doctor if I have vomiting and diarrhea.": Vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration and sodium loss, which increases the risk of lithium toxicity. Promptly notifying the healthcare provider allows for dose adjustment or additional monitoring to maintain safe serum levels.
B. "I should avoid consuming food for at least an hour after I take my medication.": Lithium can be taken with or without food, and taking it with meals may actually help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. Avoiding food is unnecessary and may worsen adherence or side effects.
C. "I should restrict my fluid intake.": Restricting fluids can lead to dehydration, increasing the risk of lithium toxicity. Clients should maintain adequate hydration while on lithium therapy.
D. "I can expect to lose weight while taking this medication.": Lithium therapy is more commonly associated with weight gain rather than weight loss. Expecting weight loss reflects a misunderstanding of potential side effects.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Elevated blood pressure: Hypertension is not a specific sign of hypokalemia. Potassium levels primarily affect cardiac and neuromuscular function rather than directly influencing blood pressure in acute situations.
B. Tetany: Tetany is more commonly associated with hypocalcemia, not hypokalemia. Muscle cramps from low potassium are typically less severe and do not present as sustained involuntary contractions.
C. Muscle weakness: Hypokalemia reduces the excitability of muscle cells, leading to muscle weakness, fatigue, and sometimes cramping. In clients taking digoxin, low potassium increases the risk of digoxin toxicity, making this a critical assessment finding.
D. Diarrhea: Diarrhea is a potential cause of hypokalemia but is not a manifestation of low potassium levels. It can lead to potassium loss but does not directly indicate hypokalemia in the client.
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