A nurse is assessing a client who has myxedema coma. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Heat intolerance
Facial edema
Tachycardia
Diarrhea
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason : Heat intolerance is not a symptom associated with myxedema coma. Instead, patients with myxedema coma typically present with cold intolerance due to decreased metabolic rate and reduced heat production as a result of hypothyroidism¹.
Choice B reason : Facial edema, particularly around the eyes, is a characteristic finding in myxedema coma. This condition results from severe hypothyroidism, which can cause mucopolysaccharide deposition in the skin, leading to non-pitting edema¹.
Choice C reason : Tachycardia is not expected in myxedema coma; rather, bradycardia is more common due to the reduced metabolic demands of the body in the hypothyroid state¹.
Choice D reason : Diarrhea is not typically a symptom of myxedema coma. Patients are more likely to experience constipation due to slowed gastrointestinal motility in the context of hypothyroidism¹.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason : The symptoms described for the 40-year-old woman align closely with the clinical presentation of a pulmonary embolism. Swelling and pain in the calf may indicate deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can lead to PE. The presence of chest pain, difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate (tachycardia), and rapid breathing (tachypnea) are hallmark signs of PE³⁴.
Choice B reason : While the 60-year-old man is experiencing fatigue, which can be a symptom of many conditions, there is no direct indication of PE. Acute kidney injury (AKI) after IV antibiotics suggests a different pathophysiology unrelated to PE.
Choice C reason : The 30-year-old man's refusal to ambulate or wear compression stockings after surgery increases his risk for DVT and subsequently PE; however, he does not currently exhibit symptoms that are as indicative of PE as the 40-year-old woman.
Choice D reason : The 55-year-old woman's symptoms could suggest a cardiac event, such as a heart attack, especially with the radiating jaw pain. While PE can present with similar symptoms, the radiating pain is more characteristic of cardiac issues³.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason :While consulting with the healthcare provider is important, immediate action is necessary to prevent harm. Waiting for a prescription may delay intervention.
Choice B reason : When a patient frequently attempts to remove their intravenous (IV) catheter, it's essential to address the behavior promptly to prevent potential complications such as catheter dislodgement, infection, or injury. The most appropriate initial response is to cover the catheter to reduce the patient's awareness and access, thereby decreasing the likelihood of tampering.
Choice C reason : Providing more stimulation could be counterproductive if the client is already agitated or confused. The nurse should assess the client's needs and environment to determine the appropriate level of stimulation.
Choice D reason : Waiting without taking action is not advisable as the client may harm themselves by removing the IV catheter. Immediate intervention is required to ensure the client's safety.
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